Butch Walker’s 2011 release ‘The Spade’ was a real mixed bag of a record, showcasing a variety of the singer/renowned producer’s many musical styles, from hard rockers through power pop gems and even a foray into quirky new wave-ish material. It was the kind of record that most people were unlikely to enjoy all of; however, the variety within its grooves meant there was something featured that would be of interest to most rock/pop fans. From beginnings likely to incur mixed feelings, it proved somewhat of a grower – a record that improved with each passing year.
Category Archives: Album & EP Reviews
SONS OF THE EAST – Sons Of The East EP
This self-titled EP is the debut outing from Australian trio Sons of the East. Self released, there’s a warmth in the material that suggests it’s been a while in the making. Those who enjoy acoustic music are almost guaranteed to come away having heard something great, even if they don’t enjoy everything on offer.
KING WASHINGTON – The Overload
King Washington’s debut album [‘The Gears’, released in the summer of 2012] was a special record indeed. The previously unknown band really made an impression with their blend of retro roots rock and slightly more 90s attitude. Just over a year later, their musical journey continues in a different manner, with KW keen to both expand their range of sounds on ‘The Overload’ and to shift outside of their comfort zone.
EASY TIGER – Easy Tiger EP
Back in the Autumn of 2011, Austin’s Easy Tiger released a two track single featuring well-constructed, Posies influenced alt-pop. Literally weeks later, they returned with a new drummer and this four track EP of songs named after girls. Although this second release has a slightly lighter tone at times, the better songs retain the spark of those prior recordings.
FIND ME – Wings Of Love
Bringing together the talents of Robbie LeBlanc (Blanc Faces), Daniel Palmquist (Xorigin) and noted session drummer/engineer Daniel Flores, Find Me is a project with strong foundations. With a selection of songs written by Frontiers Records in-house regulars Allesandro Del Vecchio and Tom Wilson and contributions from Issa and Erik Mårtensson, the whole package is designed to be the AOR fans dream. Usually when such big ambitions are chased such projects falter, but almost everything about Find Me works excellently.