MIDWEST RUMBLINGS

(Reviews of local bubbling under bands from Chicagoland via EPs and demos)

by David Alan Buco

        Here we are again for yet another edition of Midwest Rumblings.  
First I want to wish all in the region a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year 
and the “politically correct”  Happy Holidays! 

 
     First up this time is KAMERA with their five song self-titled E.P.  Sort 
of a cross between Journey and Asia, Kamera provides a kind of 21st century 
“arena rock.”   Guitar and keyboard driven rock that also contains elements 
of late ‘70s and early ‘80s rock giants Triumph and even a hint of Yes in 
their later years.  Production is first rate and the musicianship is 
impeccable, though the vocals could us just a tad bit of tweaking here and 
there.  A fine effort from a band to keep your eye on.

My Grade: B-

    XSEED is next with a top notch, kick ass 3 song sampler.  Bands like 
Disturbed, Korn and No One come to mind, but these guys retain a unique 
identity.  Smart songwriting and musicianship that rivals any of the 
aforementioned, XSEED may just be the next band from “Da Region” to hit it  
big.  I like this band a lot! I mean a lot!  I eagerly await a full length 
release from these “nu rock” gods.

My Grade: A+

      Next up is DAYS OF NOAH with their five song self-titled CD.  I can 
honestly say that this is one of the most interesting CD’s I have heard in 
quite some time.  Influences ranging from Led Zeppelin and Creed to God 
Himself are evident throughout.  Solid songwriting, intelligent lyrics and a 
very tight but raw rock sound dominate this Christian-flavored classic-rock 
set of music.
     Above average production, excellent vocals and top shelf musicianship 
drive this powerful three-piece down a different rock n' roll road.  All I’m 
offering is the truth...nothing more!  Amen brothers!

My Grade: B-

      From Lansing, Illinois ––  our last Midwest Rumbler is EGNARO with a 
three song E.P.   Punk-pop in the tradition of Green Day and Lit only with a 
much more raw/garage sound.  I’ve always been a big fan power-pop/punk and 
Egnaro fits the bill.  Of the three songs included here, two are of that 
genre and the third is more along the lines of Bush or Nickleback.  Great 
production and musicianship and flawless vocals.  I just wish there were more 
to taste here... three songs leaves me hungry. 

My Grade: A

* George Harrison-Rest In Peace.