MIDWEST RUMBLINGS
Regional Demo Reviews
from Bubbling Under Artists
by Corine Jurgerson
Whew! There was sure an influx of demos this month… many of which
are really fantastic!
Ironically enough, the genres of bands that I receive seem to come in in
spurts: one month I’ll receive all metal, the next all punk, the next
all melodic rock.
This month was definitely the month of melodic rock, with lots of
low-key sounds filling my mailbox. If you’ve recently sent a demo in,
rest assured, I do my best to get through as many as I can, just be
patient.
On occasion, things disappear from my desk (lots of music lovers
surround me!). That being said, keep those demos coming, and I look
forward to hearing what you send in for next month!
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Artist: SYNTILLA “Music Is Art”
Syntilla is a talented emo/screamo rock band from Lake Station that I
have to say blew me away with their demo, Music Is Art.
This band has already surpassed the traditional sound of the local “bar
band” and have the style and talent suitable for a possible national
assault.
I would describe their style as a cross between My Chemical Romance and
Taking Back Sunday. I’d like to see frontman Ryan Johnson’s go head to
head with Gerard Way of My Chemical Romance – his vocals could easily
crush those of the emo superstar.
The remaining structure of the band’s music is every bit as impressive –
melodic guitars that thrash in an instant, and consistent, killer drums.
I can’t wait to see these guys live – and you should definitely check
them out, too!
Visit the band on line at myspace – www.myspace.com/syntilla
RATING: FOUR STARS (****)
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Artist: FRANK TRIBES “Blade”
Chicagoland’s modern rocker, Frank Tribes, brings us mellow, mature pop
this month. Influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Echo & The Bunnymen,
David Bowie, Neil Young and more, this singer/songwriter is one that
shouldn’t be missed if your musical palate savors the aforementioned
artists.
The best thing about Tribes’ music is that its easy on the ears, and not
in a corny, say Neil Diamond way.
The pop sounds have a refreshing, folky edge to them reminiscent of
those peace-invoking troubadours of the late-‘60s music scene.
It’s a very good E.P. – although at times it is almost TOO mellow – you
find yourself waiting for Tribes to kick it up a bit, and it never
happens.
Overall, I can recommend this one for when you are in a mellow mood and
just kicking back. Check out more about Frank Tribes at –
www.franktribes.com
RATING: THREE STARS (***)
Artist: DAN WALLACE “Neon And Gold”
Singer/Songwriter Dan Wallace of Chicago also sends melodic/acoustic
rock our way via his album, Neon and Gold.
Wallace’s indie/pop/rock style is perfect for the college radio circuit.
It also has a somewhat folky edge. The best way to describe Wallace’s
style is melancholy. Bizarre harmonies made up of sharp notes against
slower tempos evoke an odd, almost uncomfortable, dreamy tone.
Think along the lines of Tom Petty perhaps, or maybe David Bowie’s
“Ziggy Stardust” persona? It’s really hard to describe Wallace’s music
comparatively speaking, which is a good thing. At least he has his own
niche, although it’s not my bag. It could be yours though...
Check Wallace and his creative musings out on line at:
www.danwallacemusic.com
RATING: TWO STARS (**)
Artist: CAREY OTT “Lucid Dream”
There’s a lot to be said about Carey Ott. And you guessed it – Ott’s
album brings us even more melodic, softer rock.
His style and vocals stand up right against today’s favorites like James
Blunt, Maroon Five and Gavid DeGraw and the quality of his songs are
likewise capable of competing against theirs for a listener’s attention
and possible air play.
The tracks on Lucid Dream are gripping enough to pull in the listener
and really make them listen. Sensitive vocals and sweet lyrics, couple
with some tasty playing, combine well enough in this package to charm
most anyone – particularly those of the sensitive female persuasion.
In short, region songcrafter and singer, Ott is a gem of an artist.
The curious can check out his musical tracks and more history online at
–– www.myspace.com/careyott
Email:
corine@midwestbeat.com
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