From the stretch of Silicon Valley highway the band’s named after, 880 South delivers their version of feel-good Reggae. Their 13 song album “Beware” is not the smoked-out Jah Mon variety we’ve heard so many times before (not that there’s anything wrong with that type), but a refreshingly energized style. I use the term “Reggae” loosely, as this Nor Cal quartet synthesizes styles ranging from funk/rock to soul and ska. Their songwriting skill and melodic sense keep these diverse elements accessible to the average listener, while their musicianship lends them credibility with hardcore fans of the genre. Continue Reading »
Solare, an LA based indie/alternative/rock trio releases “The Story of The Moon.”
Upon first discovering Solare, I felt a wierd sense of deja vu come over me. This band’s 5 song debut CD sounds at times foreign and yet strangely familiar. Any references to the obvious 90’s influences quickly disappear as the listener is immersed in the complex melodies and atmospheric rhythms. This dichotomy is further exaggerated by the band’s rich sonic pallete. In the hands of lesser musicians the songs could easily fall apart, yet the band holds them together with an artistry rarely seen today.
The opening instrumental “Holophoner” with its orchestral arrangement quickly ushers the listener to their seat. You may want to sit down for this rocket ride. The title track describes Earth’s inseparable relationship with the moon- a sort of metaphor for our own love affairs. Josh Johnson’s fluttering guitar hooks and emotional vocals are interwoven with Christine Bruton’s undulating bass lines, creating unique juxtapositions. Her bass carefully tip-toes around the chord progression, never stomping on the song while Nicholas Conner’s tasteful hi-hat splashes and fills steadily steer the ship. The mid-tempo “Spiral Out” continues the celestial theme. Josh’s jangly guitar verses and distorted/sustained choruses are reminiscent of Radiohead’s “Creep” era. His syrupy vocals echo the sense of longing in the lyrics. Before I start getting sentimental, “Everyday” is a super-charged indie rocker, a roller coaster of grungy guitar overtones and chaotic drumming by Nicholas. Bruton’s punky backing vocals play a call/response game with the guitar riffs, while her bass helps to keep the pulse. Modern noise bands should take note. You can be heavy without being metal.
This band does just about everything right. From the inventive lyrics to the inspired performances, their unique vision is so fully realized especially considering that they are relatively unknown outside of L.A. Be one of the cool kids and dig them before the rest of the world catches on.
Solare is releasing a full length CD in Japan during the Spring and working on a new full length U.S. release.
www.solare3.net
www.myspace.com/solare
Well we won’t make any promises, but if you think you got what it takes and want us to review your music or art, send an email to: submissions@jaggedmagazine.com.If we like what we see/hear, we may feature your work in an upcoming article.
