[ Track by Track ] Gills release debut album "Shadows of the Moon"

Artist: Gills
Album: Shadows of the Moon
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           Gills is an alt-country/ blues rock band based out of Buffalo NY. Band members include Duane Gills, Kristine Gills, Jim O'Brien, Mike Ryan, and Dan Solari. Some of Gills musical influences range from classic rock like the Allman Brothers, and U2, and Foo Fighters; along with country artists like Reckless Kelly, and John Mark McMillan. The band has just released their first full length album titled "Shadows of the Moon". Recording for the album started in November 2016 took a little over 6 months. We all know the working band's struggle,  having a family and a full time job, while still trying to make time to get to the studio, rehearsals, and gigs. It's not easy, but it makes the release of an album that much more to celebrate. The finished record features ten heartfelt, thoughtfully produced tracks focused around great songwriting and a dynamically driven band.


                                                             TRACK BY TRACK

 1. "Shadows" - This song starts off with bright piano, and builds adding bass guitar, and drums. Jazzy guitar chords weave in and out of the verses. The melodic piano pushes the song along, as the lyrics tell a story of longing, and seeing someone everywhere, that isn't actually there. "Any time I'm in need of direction, I take a breath and I look in the mirror, and oh, I see shadows of you"


2. "Beautiful Lady" - Acoustic guitar over light hits on the snare with brushes begin this track. Throughout the song lead guitar adds flourishes of melody, vocals layer into each rotating chorus, also adding cello. "I feel my heartstrings pull being so far from home, and in the morning I search for you, I look but I won't find, I scream and yell out your name, it'll be in vain". Searching sleepy-eyed for a love that's vanished, being far from the ones you once loved, vowing to continue to love them, even if it's in vain.


3. "First Kiss"  - "How do we capture love that we need bad, let's start with that first kiss, the first time your lips touched mine, then remember that first night, the first time we opened a bottle of wine". Reminiscent of the popular duet "Picture" by Sheryl Crow and Kid Rock, male and female vocals going back and forth, each asking the other to think back to their first kiss, to remember the good times. Acoustic guitar, bass, drums, and lead guitar fill out the sound, each giving way to the other to allow dynamics and solo melodies.


4. "Date" - Ever been on a date that ended too soon? Or how about, a date that couldn't end soon enough? Gills describes a night out on the town, that doesn't stop at last call... good times that never stop. The drums begin this song with a cool rolling beat, leaving room for a melodic bass line, and lead guitar, with percussion shining with shaker throughout the song. In the vocals, there is a nice back and forth of "Grease-esque" moments between Kristine and Duane."Roll down the windows and try to sing along, if you ride with me, this date will never end".

5. "Faces" - Things slow down here on this ballad, allowing the listener to settle in and reflect.  Kristine is featured with lead vocals, acoustic guitar, bass, drums, piano comes in after the first chorus and lead guitar. Each instrument playing a vital role to the overall production and emotional feel of the song. "Looking for the answers in all the wrong places, getting mad looking in the mirror, staring at my different faces".

6. "Dying to Stay Alive" - A song about grieving, and the aftermath of loss, or losing someone. "How am i supposed to move, how am i supposed to breathe, you were my girl, you were my everything", Duane sings. The song layers organ, bass, drums, acoustic guitar. doubled vocals in the chorus, a notable, impassioned, lead guitar solo.

7. "Tornado" - Soothing rain sounds, then upbeat acoustic guitar, drums pick up, electric bluesy guitar sections and walking bass lines. "Tornado" goes into the flip-side of a good relationship, the dirty underbelly that usually goes unseen when things go sour. "Storm came and went so fast, that the aftermath has been felt around here for days, maybe longer".

8. "Battered City"- Somber guitar chords, and forlorn vocals telling a story of a battered woman, running back into the arms of her abuser. This song ebbs and flows,  adding organ drums bass, great tight instrumental grooves and lead guitar riffs. "Is it okay for me to just walk away, that's the day your roses died.."

9. "Truth in a Bottle" -  Acoustic guitar and vocals start, as the full band comes in, trumpet is featured with lively melodies and rhythmic choices, also showcasing more lead guitar work that really brings this song to life."Is that truth in a bottle is so much easier to swallow than seeing myself for who i really am". A lot of people struggle with alcoholism and depression, and find it easier to reach for the bottle, than to face their demons or regrets head on. Duane sings of the human struggle of facing yourself while sober, finding the truth "easier to swallow" from the bottle.

10. "Gazebo Song"- Last but not least, we come full circle with a tune starting with bright piano and quickly falling  in with bass, guitar, and happy go lucky vocals. Great harmonies, and lead guitar solos, also one of the most notable choices on the album, having gang vocals on the last chorus, leading into a full on accapella sing along with the sound of the summer breeze blowing through wind chimes, and the subtle sounds of a backyard BBQ with friends. "Cut off jeans and flip flops are all you need to get by, leave your worry and stop and say hi".


Overall this album is a home run for Gills, taking us through a roller-coaster of emotions, and sharing deep honest lyricism through melodic full band productions. On their website, there is a picture featured with each track of their debut "Shadows of the Moon". Giving a visual insight to each song, and also making the album stand apart from others in the same genre. We look forward to hearing what's next from Gills, make sure to stream / consider purchasing their album on Bandcamp!

https://gillsband.bandcamp.com/album/shadows-of-the-moon-2 

[ Track by Track ] Stormcellar release chart-topping blues & roots record "Defiance"

Artist: Stormcellar.
Album: 'Defiance'.
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          Stormcellar is an innovative and original blues & roots band based out of Sydney Australia. Over the last 4 years, they have been touring extensively through the mid west regions of the US and rural Australia. All the while "in search of the shared myth that connects Celtic, Folk, Roots, Blues, Country and Rock.". Defiance is the final chapter of a three part concept album named 'Mid West Triptych'. The album has just gone #1 on the Australian Blues & Roots music chart, marking this Stormcellar's third #1 album.
          Defiance was produced in collaboration with Alan Johnson (John Fogerty, Kid Rock & Paul Rodgers), and recorded & mixed in Indianapolis and featuring  legendary guests,  Larry Crane (John Mellencamp band), Rob Dixon (saxophone player, Ray Charles) and more. Combining influences outside of the standard blues and rock genres, throughout the record you can hear musical styling's of country, alternative folk, indie rock, and even laid back jazz. Already at work on their 10^th project Stormcellar have been recording in the dome of Skywatch Observatory in the Dark Skies area of Coonabarabran, New South Wales and are scheduled for their 5^th US tour in 2018, where they have gained a cult following. With great songwriting, studio performances, combined with unique collaborations and impressive recording quality; it's easy to see why Defiance has gone straight to the top of the charts.

TRACK BY TRACK

"Hard Rock" starts off the album with high energy, blue rock n' roll vibes.  Lead guitar glides over tight bass and drums grooves. The drums full and powerful,  as the rich country style vocals sing the hook "Caught between a hard rock and a good time". Showcasing gang vocals in the chorus, and riveting slide guitar sections. Later in the tune we get to hear a fantastic electric guitar solo with a rich warm tone. "Hard Rock" tells the story of an eager man entering a bar, who notices an elusive woman. The lyrics go on to describe her sultry confidence, and his attempts to make a move.

"Julie" begins with a cool shuffle beat on the bass drum and snare, and mesmerizing delayed chorused guitar. "Hey hey hey, Julie, everytime I touch you it feels like Saturday night",  gang vocals come in to sing "hey hey hey". Throughout the song there are little musical gems, like descending harmonics, the impassioned lead guitar solo after the 2nd chorus, and the tight dynamic shifts from the bridge that burst back into the last chorus, fading away with the mesmerizing delayed guitar from the intro.  An ode to Julie, the sun, moon, and afternoon of Saturday night. possibly in reference to the elusive woman from the intro tune "Hard Rock"?

"Chase the Dragon", describes the distance a man has gone to pursue his love, from Maine, to San Luis Obispo, chasing the 'dragon', the mysterious connection between two people, the kind that makes you rearrange your entire life.  A softer side of Stormcellar, this song starts with steady bass drum, and acoustic guitar. Melodic and introspective lyrics "Gone so far away to feel near you ...you don't know what i would give to be with you tonight". The rest of the band drops in when the chorus starts, deep bass, and charming female vocals sing in harmony. Blues slide guitar bending and tugging at your heart strings.

"Stopping By", an upbeat tune, with a nice throwback feel to the late George Michael's "Faith". Acoustic guitar chords, over a bass drum and snare shuffle feel. Bass sits right in the pocket. "I'm warm in winter, and I'm cool in spring, might have no money but I don't miss a thing". "Stopping By"  sings a tale of courtship, making plans, leaning on his lovers door frame, whistling, letting her know he should be her man. Vocals dripping with cowboy "strut, and swagger".

"Heavy Weather" features a memorable saxophone intro, with incredible tone and musicianship that interweaves throughout the song with a equally impressive lead guitar solos that blow all the doors down. The first half of first verse stripped down to the essentials, bass drums, and harmonies, sliding into sweet sax solos, over top darker bluesy riffs. Groovy bass lines come up for air, and bring out the depth to the song. "I got so much lovin', that I got more than you need, I got so much lovin', why won't you believe?". Light and soulful female vocals echoing the end of the chorus singing, "why won't you believe?".

"Feels to Win" comes right out of the gate with a killer unison riff on guitars, bass. "Feels to Win" is lyrically creative and full of imagery.  "Every single problem is a solution in reverse, all you need is time to work it out", truer words haven't been spoken. The song describes life's obstacles like swimming against the current,  in comparison to the victorious feeling of actually winning against all odds. Soaring guitar solos, shredding on the fret board at times, and sustaining notes that create good tension and bring out emotion. Everyone ending on that unison riff, bringing the song full circle.

"Like a Stone (Jo)" is one of our favorites on 'Defiance" , shining a light on female vocalist "Jo", and adding a beautiful trumpet accompaniment throughout the track. The lyrics of "Like a Stone" are pure poetry in motion, with imagery of the shore, and waves, along with metaphors of the beauty of life and longing. "My soul stands alone like a beacon on a hill shining over endless seas, shining for eternity, waiting in the dark to see another light reflecting me"

"Color My World" has us picturing a packed country bar on a Saturday night, with bottles clinking, lines for the pool tables, young couples spinning out of control on the dance floor. "You made up my mind for me, color my world and then you set me free", vocals shine, reminiscent of the top country male vocalists of today. Tambourine and drums jump and rattle along, with western themed bass lines, electric guitar, and vocal harmonies.

"Go Down Easy" begins with a rolling snare pattern; leaving room for textured bass and guitar parts to flow on top. The sonic landscape creates a unique, yet nostalgic indie rock feel. Rich male and female vocals harmonies climb and fall, as the lyrical verses describe memories as wild fires, and trying to find the answers to why we cling to things that hurt us. Stellar lead guitar solos pop out of the mix, then slide back in right before leading into a slide guitar feature.  Continually impressed throughout this album by the variations on tones, and stylistic guitar playing, all of which is tasteful and essential to the Stormcellar sound.  "Let me go down easy, let me go down, let me go down free"

"Better Off Without You", takes us on journey of a man's self discovery. The rebuilding of shattered walls of confidence  after a failed relationship. "After all the talking" the singer makes up his mind that he's doing just fine on his own. "Maybe I'll go bowling, maybe I'll open up a beer, After all the talkin', maybe I've decided, after all the talkin', baby I've decided I'm better off without you". Lots of dynamic changes in the rhythm section between the verses and chorus, layered with harmonies and melodic guitar parts. Bass guitar, steady and warm, holding all the pieces like glue, helping maintain a strong song foundation.

"Isn’t How I Wanted It", has a great indie, alternative rock groove. The singer describes talking to an old flame. How it's nice to see them, and that they "like what they did with the place"... the garden in the back, pet chameleons long gone. "You seem so familiar, but I can't understand a word you say." People change, and it's something every in life struggles to understand and cope with. "Isn't How I Wanted It" features an intricate bass line, and punchy drum parts, allowing dissonant guitars to ring out and bring attention and tension to the verses. "...But who are these people, and all the ones they have replaced? this isn't how I wanted it".

"Momma Don’t Mind", is your classic blues throwback, shuffle beat, with standout harmonica parts, guitar and bass layering in with exciting licks and rolling parts all culminating as the vocals come in;  "Well your momma don't mind, and your daddy don't mind, I don't care what your momma don't allow, kick out the jams..." Sultry, and with a touch of drunken confidence... 'we're gonna do what we want, and don't care what your momma has to say about it' attitude. Some of the best guitar performances on the album.

"Like A Stone (Full Band)" , though we have heard this song earlier on the record, it's no small feat to say it's a pleasure to hear it again in a new light.  "My heart is like a stone, washed up on the sand, waiting for discovery, waiting for your hand to uncover me...". A good song can transcend any genre, and "Like A Stone" definitely fits into that category. From a traditional folk song feel, to a reggae pop song. Laid back ocean vibes, upstroke guitar, bass and drums swaying in perfect time. Melodic bluesy guitar lead comes in and sweeps us away into the last chorus, featuring smooth lead vocals, over mellow harmonies, with a sweet last message from Stormcellar.. that "all that's right is beautiful".

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[ Track by Track ] Lazywall release new album "The Hundredth Monkey"

Artist: Lazywall
Album: The Hundredth Monkey
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          It's easy to see why Lazywall is being hailed "The most widely acclaimed modern rock band in Morocco". They have recorded with legendary producers like Steve Albini (Nirvana), performed at prestigious music festivals like SXSW (Austin TX), Garorock (France), and three times at L’boulevard Festival in Morocco. The band is made up of  three Anegay brothers: Monz, Nao and Youssef, who chose classic rock as their main influence. Specifically by bands like Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, Shinedown, Tool, Audioslave, and more. Lazywall blends their modern rock sound with Arabic tunes, and musical instruments such as Oud (performed by Younes Fakhar). Lazywall discography consists of four albums: "Apoptosia” (2009), "Restart" (2010), “Aporia’s Bane” (2012), and “Square Minds in Round Heads” (2015). They have just released their fifth studio album “The Hundredth Monkey" this October, and we're excited to take a listen! 

Track by Track

 

Arca Musicae- The album begins with a haunting instrumental melody. Electric guitar layers in with the bass floating deep in the mix, like a mythical sea monster lurking in murky waters. The drums sound huge and powerful. A nice little tune foreshadowing what's to come throughout the album.

The Perfume - "The perfume has to spread to wash away the blame, oriental scent of ladies dancing to the flame" This tune is pure hard rock. The recording quality and production are impressive. The bass, drums and guitars are layered perfectly. A nice back and forth in the verses between heavy rhythm sections and pulled back. Tight harmonies in the chorus. Multiple instrumental break-downs show off the bands range and eclectic flair, and ability to adapt to quick structure changes while maintaining immaculate time.

Desert Flood - "It's time to rise, servants and lords, time to face you all, see through my eyes, red as my blood, in my head you'll crawl" The intro is wonderfully dissonant, they sing of wolves in sheep's clothing, and truth hidden behind curtains... searching for the answers, and getting revenge on people who mislead them. Exciting guitar solos and intense breakdowns, and vocal sections. In this song the lead vocals take a likeness to the sound of the alternative rockers of Incubus.

Invincible - "Who's gonna catch you if you fall?, It's not gonna be me, who's gonna embrace you when you crawl? it's not gonna be me". Melodic guitar and bass blend perfectly as lead vocals build. The song explodes into a super catchy chorus, letting the hypothetical 'Medusa" know she isn't so invincible.

Speciesism - "They are commodities like TV sets and cell phones, we've actually turned animals into inanimate objects, sandwiches & shoes, it is the greatest magic trick ever performed" guest vocals / clip of Gary Yourofsky speaking out on the horrendous "speciesism" that exists in our society, mainly in the commercial meat industry, along with clothing, and cosmetic departments. Chilling to the bone. The songs starts off with doom metal vibes, faraway plastic guitar sounds, heavy riffs, cymbals crashing, with eerie pinch harmonics, vocal harmonies, and loudspeaker effects. Reminiscent of System of A Down energy. 

Time Girl - "My blindness taught me to grope my way along, my heartbreaks taught me that pain can be strong, what if i what if i - i could go back in time, will i meet you there?" beautiful guitar tone, layers, stylings similar to John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Falls into a fun reggae beat, and "Oh' gang vocals. Nice falsetto vocals at the ends of the choruses. We could listen to this track all day. Fades out with some trippy guitar delay. 

Diamonds - "I'm an old man made of sand, you're a diamond on the palm of my hand". Bass and lead guitar dance around each other like flames in the wind. Epic ascending melodies compliment the vocals. Very catchy hook in the chorus, singing about helping someone get past their own scars in the battlefield of life.

Brother - "It could raise all my anger i never claimed to be a father, I'm not scared if it overtakes me, i won't be scared to be a brother, to suffer, and be in this mind's slaughter". This song starts off soft and pretty and gets grittier as it develops. Theres a unique guitar tone on the solo halfway through, space-like and zippy. Harmonies and a tight bass and drum groove allow a lot of room for dynamics in the final verses.


I Am - "Dirty, beauty, I feel, so sick, concrete, needles, faded, reasons". Love the scratchy, growly lead vocals on the chorus. This is one of the more interesting arrangements on the album, infusing some of that Arabic instrumentation and percussion with the heavy hitting rock riffs. Something very unique to their sound is the ability to include these different instruments and lose no momentum.

Distorted Mind - "I'm in jail and I'm wasted, I am awake and speechless, I have a single vision of your distorted mind". Angry, intense, seeking vindication... just a few of the emotions emanating from "Distorted Mind", as the lyrics describe a person with a twisted view of the world. Their perception being less than focused, and dealing with bubbling frustration. Heavy guitars, and big drum snare fills, another explosive track from Lazywall.

Dragonfly - "I swear I'll take good care of you, you carry me while I'll smile for you, please save the world with open eyes, remember me as a dragonfly". The song begins with a pretty piano accompaniment, with really cool bass fills dropping in here and there. The backing vocals in the choruses are hypnotic and angelic. What sounds like a supercharged synthesizer solo really knocks this song out of the park! The backing vocals climb back in with organ-like guitar tones, as the last chorus bursts with melody and brings the song to a close with the original piano part.

Plagueman - "Show me a reason, show me a reason to live". This song has one of the best dynamic rhythm shifts, seamlessly going from a straight rock beat into a sweet disco/funk beat. The heavy guitar riff breakdown is electrified with an hard rocking sweeping guitar solo, while the bass and drums push the tempo, giving the listener the feeling of being in a fast car on the freeway at night headed into the city.

Nothingness - "Time and time again, I fall in nothingness, says after days, I fake this lonely, face to face myself, I wait to heal this, time and time again, I fall in nothing, this nothing, in nothingness". An homage to sadness, and feeling like absolute nothingness. Fighting with inner demons, and mistakes from the past, along with trying to change people's negative perceptions. The song builds and crashes like a boat on a stormy sea. The sign of a great band is being able to tap into the emotion of a song, and transfer that emotion into instruments. Lazywall does just that.

Come What May - "I won't cry for yesterday, I'll stand on my own two feet again, hold come what may". Snare and phased guitar create exciting tension in the verses, as the rhythm section picks up speed into the hook. A song about accepting whatever the future may hold, and not looking back with regret. Strong backing vocals,  and intricate guitar and bass lines build a really nice platform for the lyrics to shine.

Executed - "All of my life, all that I tried to do was to understand all the sounds in your craziness, this laziness, I found the things that make sense". Dark warm guitars chug along, as bass and distorted lead guitar weave in and out of the mix around vocals. The bridge has a monster guitar solo, incredible talent and finger-work. This song rocks through and through.

Away - "No more lions chasing me, no more dragons to carry me, there's no more pages in this old book, now the pain is gone, away away, its gone away". Rolling guitar and percussion, harmonized guitars. Melodic vocals over arpeggiated guitar and warm bass. Crunch guitar comes in the second verse. A song rejoicing that the pain of the past, and fear has finally faded away. Catchy gang vocals driving the emotion home. An upbeat tune to leave you wanting more as this stellar album comes to a close.


          Overall, "The Hundredth Monkey" is a rock solid release from Lazy Wall. Two albums worth of songs jam packed into one amazing album. As a band, the trio of Monz, Nao and Youssef create an enormous sound, with unique instrumentation, and impressive musical chops, there are endless possibilities for their music and their talent to exceed new heights. Some of our favorites off the record were "The Perfume", "Invincible", and "Time Girl". Feel free to comment yours below!

Here are some links for digital purchase of "The Hundredth Monkey"
CD BABY

AMAZON
DEEZER
iTUNES

 

[ Album Review ] Hooyoosay - Mountain Air EP

Artist: Hooyoosay

Album: Mountain Air EP

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     Don’t be surprised if you feel inspired to quit what you’re doing and take a crack at that thing you never thought was possible before. Hooyoosay has brought together a fascinating arrangement of styles into something entertaining, and unique.

Track by Track

Mountain Air - The first song of any EP is important. And this album opener is no exception. It sets a clear expectation for the musical journey that’s to come. Fun synth beats, with layered harmonies, and surf-like guitar lines shining between the verses. Vivid imagery of a peaceful mountain retreat, fresh air, camping, mountain biking, and basking in all the glory of what nature has to offer.

My Lucky Dream Day - This instrumental interlude combines sounds you thought you forgot about, and turns them into into a masterpiece you’d never expect. The song title says it all, you’ll find yourself daydreaming about a tropical paradise, probably in 8-bit Nintendo graphics.

Done Our Best - The music that backs the lyrics of this song is the type of tune that will get these words stuck in your head. And good thing too, most people need the sort of encouragement found in the articulation of this score. Smooth synth pads, percussion, electric guitar, and strong male and female vocals sing in perfect harmony, creating a utopia of pleasant melodies.

Complicated - Originally written by Mick Jagger, and Keith Richards, Hooyoosay pays homage to a classic tune about a complicated woman. What would an album be without a ballad? Keeping true to their quirky, electric, folky, sophisticated sound; this finale brings you right where you want to be, after a journey through sounds unlike anything you’ve heard, it’s nice to come down with a soft spoken reality that’s familiar, but still echoes the vibes of the new.

Make sure to pick up / listen to Mountain Air EP here: 

Bandcamp 

iTunes

Spotify 

CD Baby

Contributing Writers: Matt S., Jeanette B.

Spring 2017

[ Album Review ] Avarice - Words and Sounds EP

Artist: Avarice
Album: Words and Sounds EP
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Elias-Omar, aka "Avarice" is a hip hop artist based out of Danbury, CT. He is also a member of the group 'No Definition', which consists of Lord Lucky Leftfield, and Divine Lava. Avarice is also a fraction of the conglomerate of artists known as 'The S.I.N.'. Avarice blends his unique voice with elements of jazz, ambient, and contemporary sounds.

On his latest release "Words and Sounds" we are taken on a journey through the struggles of being an independent artist, climbing above adversity and the negativity that surrounds us; while also digging deep and analyzing the controversial nature of police brutality and racism. Intriguing, thought provoking, and well produced, we introduce "Words and Sounds":

Track by Track

Anomaly 2.0

The word "Anomaly" is defined as "something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected." The perfect title for the unique blend of sounds Avarice has created on this track. Industrial beats mesh seamlessly with a cavalcade of smooth flowing lyrics. One thought blending into the next over top of an eerie bass and synth groove. Lead guitar, organs, and jazz piano playing wistfully in the background. "I bless 'em when their souls needed a medic, so I wash my hands, prepping for surgery"

Fallen Angels

Emotive saxophone kicks things off, sweeping high over softly played piano and ambient strings. A fragmented drum beat creates a unique collision of rhythmic lyrics and atmospheric background sounds. Fallen Angels rings true, telling a story of staying true to yourself. Reflecting on what life could be like if music had not become a facet of everyday life.  "happy song" when it doesn't come naturally. The track fades out into the jazzy intro saxophone rising and swelling with the choppy intro beat. "Trust me, no matter what, we gonna elevate"

Why

A driving drum beat, matched with strong straightforward lyrics "...and all I see is liars and deceivers, it ain't no surprise" commenting on how easy it could be to fall into the negativity of your environment and friends circle. "For years i recorded the battle within, my love, my lies, and all my sins", "caught up in the prison of the mind, systematic lies..." A true testament to the daily conflicts we all face, trapped within the confines of one's thoughts; Avarice finds a creative outlet to express the battles within and find peace through music.

Good Evening

Layered synth pads, a chill out beat, with ambient background chatter. People talking in a bar or large work space. "Rinse away drama in the moonlight", time to kick back and relax, Avarice reflects and analyzes his environment, the streetlights that light the night streets. Pouring some drinks, ridding yourself of stress and try to just enjoy life. "Whatever happens happens just enjoy the evening"

(See lyric video below)

Hands Up  

Aggressive and direct, "Hands Up" touches on the controversial nature of police brutality and racism happening currently in the United States."Ready to risk it all in just a second, and my crime? self-preservation..." The sad reality of the political climate we live in. Where "Self-preservation" could get a person thrown in jail, or shot by those sworn to protect and serve. Pulsing bass, and synth leads ring out as the drums crash in with explosive vocals, echoing the anger and outrage. Halfway through the song you can hear sound-bytes of gunshots and distant yelling.

Final Destination

"Most find joy in your struggle...sit there laughing while you handle your grind". Beautiful piano in a bright room sets up this hopeful, reflective song. Accompanied by bass and layered percussion, the song builds into each section. Flowing lyrics twist and tug at your thoughts, creating imagery and provoke warm uplifting feelings. Make sure your have your headphones in for this one, gotta hear that bass groove with the drums. "The duration of your dedication is in direct relation to your final destination, your final destination" A poignant commentary on perseverance and focusing on what's important to you in life, trusting that it will take you where you want to go.

Make sure to check out "Words and Sounds" on Spotify, and Itunes. 

[ Album Review ] Jared Mancuso - Superdope

Artist: Jared Mancuso
Album: Superdope
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Jared Mancuso reignites rock n' roll with his incredible album "Superdope". Combining high energy party romps, tender 50's surf rock vibes, and throwbacks to blues, and early pop, Superdope easily puts Mancuso in a genre all his own. Set to be released November 15th, you can check out the first single "Roll Over" on Soundcloud.

TRACK BY TRACK

Roll Over – like a Molotov Cocktail thrown into a pile of fireworks, Superdope gets right in your face with funky, grungy electric guitar, crunchy riffs and warm arranged backup vocals. “Go on, roll over now” Explosive energy circulates around a tight, locked in rhythm section. Building throughout the song is the intense Led Zeppelin feel, and Weezer vibes. Electric guitars play in perfect synchronicity with each other. "You can make threats, I'm not the kind of person you can scare". Calm, cool and collected lyrics combat with the vibrant rock beat, like those fleeting heated moments in an argument. Sometimes things go much smoother when you Roll over and give in. 

La De Da – a fun, tongue in cheek tune about people who seem to just let themselves be miserable. People can get hung up in bad relationships, or wanting companionship, when they haven't found how to even make themselves happy. With a jaunty chorus of La de da dee da’s, as if to say they’re ignoring the things they could do to be living a better life. By the end of the song you might find yourself arm and arm with your best buddy at the bar, Guinness's in hand, and a round of whiskey shots on the way.

The F_ck – (personal favorite)  Awesome. Catchy,  “I dive right in, then I quickly start to sink” “What the F_ck am I supposed to do?!”  This song brings on the hard questions...what am I going to do with my life, should I move across the country,  should I try to find myself, or should I stay put and keep hitting the pavement? “Ain’t got the words, because this pen’s running out of ink” The bridge builds in intensity with Ooh’s and crashing drum fills, melodic shredding guitars, harmonies so godly you might have to tie your shoes to your chair. “It could be I’m not good enough to make it” a refreshing dose of self awareness, Mancuso digs deep to understand what might be holding him back when it comes to commercial success in the music industry. This song, and this entire album exceeds genre boundaries, shows character, and exposes the raw talent, tenacity, and songwriting mastery that comprises Jared Mancuso's sound.

Would You – slows down for a minute “I’ve got these brand new shoes and I’m walking away from you” “you left your laundry here, come and get it when I’m not around”… breakups are never easy, someone you used to be so into is now the one person you hope to avoid at the grocery store. Beach boys vibes, 50’s surf rock pull you in like a slow crashing wave. The little bit of slap-back echo on Mancuso’s voice sends cool chills into the mix. The harmonized guitar solo paints a vivid image of a dark stormy beach, with simple drum beats keeping everything centered.“Now would you let it go?” Continually impressed by the focus on songwriting, and keeping it in the forefront. With a band that has the capacity to blow the roof off a warehouse , they know exactly when to hold back and put the song first. 

Superdope – The title track of Mancuso’s new project is your next party anthem. Quick-paced lyrics and smooth falsetto. “Put your hands up for the superdope party” Beastie Boys meets the Black Keys. A winning combination of rock n' roll with a fun hip hop feel. They really dig their teeth in at the bridge, the groove gets heavy and the lead guitars scream and wail in perfect harmony. Only to exceed themselves at the last moments with an explosive, edge of your seat ending. 

Mayday (Instrumental) –  This is not your typical album ballad, this is a high speed car chase on the open freeway at night. Beefy, thick guitars, wild crashing drums, and what sounds to be piano ripping it like Jerry Lee Lewis playing Great Balls of Fire. Each member taking turns adding to this complex rock n’roll layer cake that makes it impossible to sit still. Mayday makes your standard rock 4 piece sound like the Trans Siberian Orchestra.

Rest of Our Lives – Vocals styling reminiscent of Weezer, and The Avett Brothers really allow the lyrics to shine on this track. Sweet  harmonies and hot electric guitars go back and forth to tell a story of a love in the works. “I thought we’d be together for the rest of our lives” In the age of online dating, and hook up apps, it may seem like an impossible sea of love to navigate. You might have one of the best first dates of your life, only to never hear from that person again. Or the opposite, you may have had a terrible time, only to find that person is now sending you love notes in the mail and showing up at your work. Either way, it's these things a listener can really connect to with Mancuso's music. Songs about the everyday struggles of dating and pursuing love. “…I can’t believe we met last week. I can prove to you that my love never dies…if only you would take a second date”. 

Drive Me Crazy – smooth fuzz guitar, shaker percussion, falsetto vocal doubling set the vintage, old-time recording feel of this track. Transcending from Modern rock to earlier styles of rock n’ roll with all the style and flair of Motown producers back in the 50's. The groove gets deep and muddy like hot fudge. The drum tom and snare are deep and dark toned. Like the love that dragged you so deep underground that you’ll never find a clean escape. “You know that you drive me crazy, and I know it’s all the things you do to me” A toxic, yet working relationship. As artists I think we all find ourselves in some crazy relationships, ever on the prowl for our next muse.

The Other Side – bright, fun, upbeat, full of energy; The Other Side is stumbling onto a beach party, and getting handed cold beers and Austin style street tacos. Gang vocals in the chorus bring out the tenaciousness in Mancuso's voice. “Need a ride to the other side” “ba da ba” surf vibes meets hard driving classic rock. “if you’re too cool for school, then you’re really never gonna make it”. I Showing up to a scene “fly as hell” ready to meet girls, and dance, and see how crazy a night can get. Bring the party over to the other side (the next morning). 

Water – (personal favorite) the closing track to Superdope starts off with acoustic guitar, vocals similar to Anthony Kiedis, and the warm expressive feel of Neutral Milk Hotel. Perfectly panned harmonies, and acoustic guitar solo that warms your spirit like a fresh pot of coffee after a long night. “through the surf and sound, make my way back home” A nice throwback to this entire album, a work inspired by the simple effectiveness of early rock n roll bands and recordings, combined with all the party vibes of bands like The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Black Keys, and Weezer. As the song progresses the ooh La la’s build as the snare rolls back in, claps, and unique piano tones join as it all fades away, like the waves retracting back to the sea. 

Superdope is set to be released November 15, 2016. You can get you're copy right here: http://www.jaredmancusomusic.com/

Upcoming Shows

11/06/16  -  Bourbon & Branch   -   Philadelphia, PA   -   DETAILS
11/17/16  -  The Bowery Electric ALBUM RELEASE PARTY  - New York, NY
11/19/16  -  Maxwell's on Main   -   Doylestown, PA   

Watch the video for “Roll Over”