Craving Strange: Besides Review!

   From the weirdos that describe them-selves “Like Foghat and Cheap Trick in a fistfight with the Foo Fighters and GreenDay,” we get the band’s latest record, Besides (released 19 September).

  

 Craving Strange hail from Amityville New York and hold an impressive Bio, making them inarguably the biggest band we’ve worked with at TWRAR. With music on every watchable TV station I can think of (VH1, Fuse, and Discovery) and then some (FOX Sports, MTV) and an impressive list of venues and festivals under their belts (Texas Rock Fest, SXSW), it’s no wonder they were given the opp-ortunities to open for some of rock’s notable beasts, including Steel Panther.

   Obviously taking influence from the 21^st century greats, including Those who Fight Foo, GreenDay, and Jimmy Eat World to name a few, as well as those tried and true Classic Rock gods. You know the three. What we get is a crisp metal tone that isn’t quite hard enough to be the cold and lifeless sound we tend to see on the rock scene these days.

   Ah! The band! Right! Drum roll please- on vocals and guitar we have Jimmy G. Coming in at a whopping Whopper on the drums is also Jimi. Jimi Tassone to you. We have Matt Abbate on guitar! Let’s not forget the spectacular cherry on top, Mike Talento. If that isn’t the grouping of the most stereo-typical names in modern rock, I don’t know what is! But that aside, these guys are anything but.

   To get a clear view of the album, let’s start at, I dunno, the beginning. Safe From The World grabs you hot and heavy from the first second. Headbang all you want, the lyrics and music come together to form a beautiful intertwined work of art. Jimmy’s vocals feel natural and sincere. We are talkin’ smooth. Added harmonization in the background compliments his masculine voice and brings out true gentleness of this song. The riff is another thing that gets a hold of you and doesn’t let go. Very crisp and clean with just the right amount of crunch. Drums are complex without being over the top. Slight changes and variations add a great deal of interest to the rhythm section. The bass is something you’ll have to pick out, but the mixing and tone is absolutely superb. The bottom greatly rounds out the vocals and lead guitar, grounding them. Don’t fly away little soaring vocals! Although darker in tone, the song has a very optimistic message. That you should listen to it.

   You’ll Never Know starts with a pleasant riff that is quickly joined by a dramatic drum track that does wonders in creating atmosphere. Soft vocals fill in the void, soon rising to a full vocal tone filled with a rich timbre. It is easy to say that this particular track does an extra-ordinary job at pumping up the listener. It is exciting and energetic without tripping the line into “party everyday” zone. The overall feeling this song gives is perfectly described as “hopeful” While not a complex song, it is definitely ambitious, so much so that the feeling of get-up-and-go is utterly contagious.

 

   From The Grey follows with a beat slightly reminiscent of reggae. Put that with the rock and roll and you have the Police! In all actuality, I can only imagine that this is what the police would have sounded like if they were pushing albums during our modern reign on rock. This jive turkey only lasts about a minute before we are met     with soulful vocals and a solid mix of that sweet rock sound. Just as you think things are going to overwhelm you with sheer awesomeness, things dissolve back to the cool mellow the track opens with. With a slight build up before we get back to the chorus, it’s like a charge is being built. Judging by the songs we’ve covered so far, it is obvious that the boys of Craving Strange have truly mastered the art of pumping up their audience, something that is critical in today’s audience.

   After a guitar solo that somehow reminds me of Slash (good, but not over the top), we are given a final treat as the last chorus reaches a brilliant climax. All 4 members are accounted for in creating this vibrant swell that skews us out.

   Where Is The Way Out gives us a taste of just where our rock and roll roots are. The guitar is set just right in the intro and I love it. It holds all the moodiness and angst we expect a tone like that to bring. This 15 seconds of vibe does its job of setting the stage for this contrastingly dusky piece. I think musically, this is my favourite track off the EP. Everything comes together nicely to create an ideal placement for the song in the psyche. The nature of this piece is almost dark, but it seems that it is the band themselves that help hold us back from falling down this rabbit hole. I like it.

   Oh yeah, the music. I was getting distracted by the song. Sorry. So the drums are the first thing that stands out to me. The tempo is very fast, and Jimi is all over the place, but it does no such thing as take away from the overall effect. The hurried tempo and frantic bashing reminds me of the intro of Heart’s Magic Man, Which to me shows nothing but desperation and the will to be free.

   Once the end is near, we are led out with the same guitar that brought us in. a very beautiful journey to say the least.

   Complicated is the fifth and final track on the EP. Do not be solemn, my friend, because this song is anything but. The lead in has a bright sound that reminds me ever so slightly of the “Summer is Great!” songs that flooded Disney when I was a kid. That being said, my last statement is probably the most “negative” thing I have to say about the whole album. Not really that negative.

   Every album has to have one song that appeals to the larger masses I’ve found, and this one is probably it. We all know no one listens to albums as a whole anymore.

   Here’s hoping this song does get radio play on that scale because the rock is hard, the solo is radiant, and I think that anyone who gets their hands on this single song will be craving something (oh, word play, u so silly).

   Overall, this album is very well produced, heartfelt, and on flames with Fuckin Rock and Roll. Each song knows just how to pump the listener, and then carry them off. Craving Strange has a wide world open to them for their taking.

   Literally, the guys are currently touring in CHINA. Asians are by far the biggest keepers of rock in the world, so go out and do your part to help fight those darn commies! Buy up all the Strange you can and beat them! Or at least check out the band by ways of Facebook, Youtube, or their website, http://cravingstrange.net. It is very fancy. They also have their albums all up for grabs at BandCamp!

      -Cheyenne Kline

            Thank you to the boys of craving strange for their kindness and patience as TWRAR got rough! We will rise again!

King Cardinal- Once A Giant Review!

    

        So for this issue, we are going to take a step west to Colorado- the home of TWRAR. Yeah we feature so many East coast artists, we forgot about the tasty music scene of Denver! To set the mood, let’s break our norms to take a look at King Cardinal, recent winner of the Schomp MINI Band of the Summer!

   While Colorado isn’t defined by the soft and homely vibes put out by King Cardinal, in fact some very heavy acts have escaped,  we present them to you as an escape from the pressing issues of the angry white boy… you know, diversity people.

   The second release King Cardinal brings us, Once a Giant is a graceful mashup of Bluegrass, Folk, Singer-Song-Writer, and a little of what you would call “Country” for flavour. Now I know what you Rockers are thinking, but stop. You gotta grow up and get out more. I’ll say it myself, I was a foolish sceptic from the start, but it wasn’t long before I pressed play and was instantly regretful.

   I tend to overlook this sort of genre of music, as it is literally everywhere in this part of the state, but I gave it a shot, and the rest of the world should too.

   King Cardinal began with lone frontman, Brennan Mackey and expanded into the new and improved five piece that we get to meet on this album. The personnel include Jamie Mitchell on pedal steel, Scott Roush on drums, Texanna Dennie joining Mackey on vocals, and Kramer Kelling as bassist.  Together the group creates a humble and upbeat tone. I would use the word “earthy” to describe the sound, but that is a little overused in this playing field. 

    To start off, let’s look at the first track, Abraham. The song starts off with a delicate arpeggiated chord sequence that quickly leads to Mackey’s deep rumble. The vocal performance on this piece is hard to explain; each element builds and builds to create a simple, yet lush sound scape that tells a curious story. When we get to the chorus, that is exactly what we are met with- a flowy chorus of friendly voices.

   But wait! What is this? A sudden change of tempo and style will leave you checking the track for an unexpected shuffle. Instantly, Mackey’s vocals turn into an optimistic growl and the whole dynamic of the instrumentation changes. Banjo, lap steel, and thumping bass brighten up the place, and let’s not forget that rockin’ drumbeat. This abrupt change adds excitement that pumps you up for the rest of the EP.

    The next song on the album is Gasoline, which like its predecessor starts off with gentle chords and soothing vocals. The shift in this number is aloof and tactful, bringing in a very groovy beat that proves just how talented Mr. Roush really is. Layered guitars and lap steel swim in the depth created by the musicians. Despite the lyrics: “If you want fire, I’ve got the gasoline”, the song itself if very cool and refreshing.

   Into The Wind is our next target. Right off the bat, the song proves itself bubbly, but comes to a calm not yet seen. Almost ballad like, Into The Wind is soothing and thoughtful, the kind of song you would listen to on a bad day, you know. Soulful vocals fit nicely over well-placed lap steel, leading up to a brilliant solo by Mitchell. This song is bright and heartfelt, surly to be a sensational trip for the listener.

   The follow up is One, a work that begins with a sound that nicely contrasts the first set of the album. Almost dark in in presence with a very slight amount of tasteful dissonance, One  is a duet between Mackey and the lovely Texanna Dennie. Although not as upbeat as the songs we’ve gone over this far, this one is still sweet and meaningful. I found the guitar work all around very put together here. Each piece has its place and compliments its counterparts.

   Release Me begins with a quaint bit of guitar that has a tinny twang about it. It isn’t long before we find a bit of violin intertwining around the simple guitar work. Mackey’s deep voice then takes the spotlight to paint a serene scene of our senses. A quick pause enters us to the rhythm section. Four on the floor and a subtle amount of bass fill out the rest of our aural panorama that grows and grows, building up to a powerful climax. This, so to speak, is our release from the song. We might also say that it is our release point of the album as we know it.

   It then seems that we are launched into something that would be described by Rod Sterling at the beginning of an episode of The Twilight Zone. We step into another dimension known as Standing Down. We start off on this new plane confronted by what sounds like something reminiscent of the great psychedelic sound experiments of the 60’s. Eventually in this celestial wasteland, we find a voice and an accompanying song structure, which is a generous surprise to the already divine music at hand. To put it point blank, this is what “Vibes” sound like. Truly beautiful. An absolutely astonishing way to flow out of a terrific album.

   In the end, Once A Giant lives up to its title. We are given a huge and fulfilling sound that is humble and down to earth. Even if the folk scene isn’t yours, this album is definitely worth a listen and then some.

   

 King Cardinal is currently on tour, so head to https://www.facebook.com/KingCardinalmusic/ to view dates!You can also find Once A Giant online at http://www.kingcardinal.com/music/

               -Cheyenne Kline

*Many thanks to the ever patient King Cardinal!

 

New Editorial: Why I Hate Plus Size Models

Tyler Reed and Lila Ignite- Interiew and Review!

TYLER REED & LILA  IGNITE 

  

  With an album cover fit for VH1 Classic and songs that are dripping with the venom of honesty, it isn’t hard to see that these tasty offspring of the Century Break Greats are hitting the nail on the head.

  

 While Lila Ignite is laced with the sweet influence of Greenday, among others, their claim to Punk is conflicted. Our motto at TWRAR is “We Are The Noise”, and that is exactly what draws me to this group. They aren’t the Punk you see tagging walls and chain smoking. It runs deeper. They earn the title of Punk through their values and ideals. They walk the walk and talk the talk. Mohawks and steel-toed boots not included.

 So enough ass-kissing, let’s get to what you people came for. Lila Ignite consists of 4 dudes. You got Jon Shackelton on the Drums, Dan Congdon on Bass, Tom Lewis on Guitar, who also does a little singing here and there, and lastly, our leading man, Tyler Reed, the Lead Singer and manager. Now Tyler isn’t your typical angry Punk, as I mentioned before, he’s more like the nicest guy ever. Even though yours truly delayed this very article as well as the interview you are about to experience, Tyler stuck with it.

  

 We are on to the Q&A!

   Q. So how long have you guys been together?

   A. It will be 4 years in August!

   Q. Are you planning anything big?

   A. Well, we will be on tour for the first half of August, and then we go home. We’re going to start really focusing on continuing to write a new album.

  Q. So what are your plans for the next album?

  A. We’re starting to explore some new sounds for this album already, it’s really fun. We already have a Doo Wop song that I really enjoy. I think we might resurrect some older songs and give them some new life.

   Q. With Not Punk Rock, what was your biggest inspiration?

   A. Hmm… I’d have to say just the ambition to do something bigger than we thought we could do. I’m a huge fan of bands that make huge, anathematic records, and I really wanted to create something like that. Bands too often play it safe and never really step out of their comfort zones anymore, so we wanted to do something to separate us from the attitude and content feeling of being mediocre.

   Q. Personally, what song off the record is your favourite?

   A. Oh, man. I’d have to say Connected Through Space or I’m Not Afraid both are super fun live, and two completely different vibes, but it’s fun to flow from one into the other.

   Q. What is your favourite venue to play live?

   A. The Space in Hamden CT. and the Sherman Theatre in Stroudsburg PA. Also, we’ve only played their once, but I loved Anonymous Guitars in South Florida.

   Q. Is there anything you want the world to know about Lila Ignite?

   A. My favourite colour is blue!

   Q. I’ll be sure to add that!

   A. And that we love what we do and are excited to and so appreciative of all of the incredible opportunities and tours we’ve been able to be a part of as well as everyone we’ve ever met and everyone who continues to support this wacky thing we have. It’s a crazy, difficult career choice, but we all love what we do!

   Q. Do any of the guys have anything?

   A. Daddy issues and graphic novels mostly.

   Q. Can I add that?

    

There you have it! And if Lila Ignite is in the progress of coming up with something great, you can be sure that this is not the last you will see of then around here!

    

So, what do WE think of the album? Well the best medicine would be for you to go out and try it for yourself and their website: lilaignite.bandcamp.com but for the sake of conversation, let’s look at some choice songs off their album!

  

 Let’s start out with the jams that Tyler mentioned: Connected Through Space is The perfect song to start out with because it goes against the grain of what you would expect from a band of this calibre. The first half is sincere and dear. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that the soft vocals and harmonies were just for me. They say that the best songs do that to you. At nearly the half way marker of the song, we get into the heavy stuff which only hammers home the lyrics. I think that the line “I know that this is real” repeated throughout the song is relatable in anyone’s life. The fact that it is repeated adds to the reality of the whole piece. “Two hearts united, Connected through space” leaves a lasting impression, especially to me. I don’t necessarily believe in god, but I do believe in Grand Fate.

  I’m Not Afraid actually comes before Connected Through Space on the album. Again, another one that sits pretty in my emotional field, as well as anyone who has experienced life’s ups and downs. “Put an end to sleepless nights”, “I’m learning how to deal”, and “Down the drain with medication” are things that most Live Fast, Die Young Millennials have had to experience, be it personally or passively. Enough with that though, because this song looks to the positive effects of being twenty-teen-something. “I feel I’m getting better”, “I’m learning how to deal”, “Never felt this real”. I can go on all day quoting lyrics, so let’s talk music. The upbeat tempo is what really gives the song its power, but when paired with an equally upbeat guitar track, you get something that is really special (thanks, Lewis and Shacklton). There isn’t much I can say about this song because it is a very tactile thing that needs to be held personally in order to truly grasp its relatability to your life.

  Alright, let’s look at the title track before we jump into my favourites: Not Punk Rock. I’m just kidding you; this is one of my favourites. Screw the song, I’ll take a large order of those lyrics to go please. It takes balls to bash someone, but putting it into song is the ultimate burn, however, these guys have ‘em and can pull it off. Reed’s vocals add to the quick-witted vibe of the song. The best part is that if you added a sound bite of a mic-drop, this would be the greatest rap-battle of all time. After that point, we are left with the lingering sound of Congdon’s bass to let us know that the boys aren’t quite through. One more go at the course leaves a burning for more in my ears (Listen to the song and you’ll get it).

   When It Rains, It Pours is one that had me at the riff. It is reminiscent of our Classic Rock forefathers, but takes a modern twist with its clipped sound. By simply not drawing out the chords, you get a sound that is perfect for the modern audience. One thing that Tyler and the boys can give us that Rock’s predecessors can’t is a relevant angst. The title is pretty self-explanatory, and again, it is for those who know the rises and falls of simply existing in society. We know what it feels like to be stuck; we know how it feels to need someone. It is perfect for your physical or mental rainy day.

  

 So all in all, short summary: these are real guys making real music for real people. Check out picture for tour dates, and make sure to get their album!

       -Cheyenne Kline, Special thanks to Tyler Reed and his terrific band! http://lilaignite.bandcamp.com/