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MIDWEST RUMBLINGS: Local Demo Reviews by Rachel Komar
This month I found some pretty good bands. But, as always, don’t take my word for it. Check these bands out for yourself!! Now, on with the reviews... The first demo this month comes from The Gelheads. This band has popped out a couple great demos in the past, but nothing can compare to their new EP, The Stars Motel. This seven-song burst of fun is entertaining the entire way through. Every song is catchy and worthy of being a hit. The vocals are very strong, and they tie in well with the sing-along lyrics. The guitar work is powerful, and the drumming is exceptional. This is a must have! RATING: ****
The next band up is Obligatory British Villains; interesting name, which luckily comes with interesting music. Their new release, O.B.E., consists of ten great electronic-based tracks. Obligatory British Villains is one man and one woman, who together create a CD filled with layers of sound. Their harmonies are beautiful, and the instrumental work is quite impressive. RATING: ***
Another band this month is Mindsight. Their five-song, self-titled demo simply rocks. When listening to this CD I can almost feel their energy. This CD contains a sort of laid-back power. The vocals feed into the solid tunes, and the rhythm section really stands out. I can tell Mindsight has been greatly influenced, but they still show some originality. With a little more work, this band could really be something big. RATING: **1/2
The next band, Signal, and their five-song EP, poured energy the second the CD was slipped into the stereo. The loud vocals are perfect for the hard-hitting drumming and intense melodies. They even have a live song at the end, which proves they aren’t afraid to show their true colors. This band would be a great one to see live, and I would like to hear more from them soon. RATING: ***
The last band this month is So Far, who have an EP coming out in a couple of months. However, with my impatience, I couldn’t wait to review this extraordinary band, so I decided to review their self-titled teaser demo, which only contains two songs. In this CD, the vocals are very different, but in a great way, and each member of this band offers a specific strength that fully completes this team of amazing musicians. I can’t get over how good their music is, and I am greatly anticipating their upcoming EP. RATING: ***
Off the subject, I think I need to make clear what this column is all about. I have been getting nasty emails lately asking me how I could give a band such a good review when they suck live. The purpose here is to discuss “demos”. And by definition, a “demo” is often not a mixed and finished product. Sometimes they are and sometimes they are not. All of my ratings are based on the recordings, the potential of the songs and only that. However, I do agree that you ca not determine if a band is good just by their CD, and I encourage you all to check out bands live. Go experience it! Keep those demos comin’! Midwest Rumblings c/o Midwest BEAT P.O. Box 9069 • Highland, IN 46322 Email Rachel at: Rachel@MidwestBeat.com
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