I definitely think that I need to get in touch with the powers that be at Webster Dictionary and get them to include a picture of the band Blameshift next to the words “work ethic.” I think that even the late James Brown, the hardest working man in show business, would even tip his hat to this band. I mean, the band played over 250 live shows in 2012. The band’s origins can be traced back to 2005 and since then, the band’s taken an old school approach of being true road warriors and spreading their art to as many live audiences as possible. All that hard work seems to be paying off as they have just released their new album Secrets and it just may be the weapon needed to launch them to the next level.
The band, based out of Long Island, New York, consists of drummer Nathan Saake, guitarist Tim Barabour and lead singer Jenny Mann. Secrets, which was produced and engineered by Erik Ron (VersaEmerge/Good Charlotte/Panic at the Disco), is the follow-up to their fan-funded 2011 EP The Black Rose, which got the band noticed by quite a few outlets. I have to admit that curiosity was getting the best of me leading up to this release. Would they ride that momentum forward with this new album? Let’s grab a musical scalpel and dissect this latest release from the band, shall we?
The album begins with a short instrumental intro called “Set It All Free.” It’s almost as if it’s the equivalent to the stewardess on a plane telling you to buckle up because you’re about to take off. The real fun really starts with the next track “The Enemy You Need.” The song launches out of the gate at full throttle and gives you a small taste of what’s in store. This song kicks some serious ass on so many levels: great vocal delivery, a down-right infectious groove that commands you to get up and move, plus some pretty killer guitar parts. If the band’s not playing this one live already, then it needs to be added to their set list ASAP.
The title track, which is the new single and video, is another solid number that follows that same formula and it works in a major way. I’m sure many of you are already familiar with this track (shame on you if you’re not) so I’m not going to say too much about it.”Destroy Your Masquerade” is a stand-out track and it features a guest appearance by Paul McCoy of 12 Stones. The addition of a male vocalist adds a great layer to an already solid song. “Let Go” starts out with a Shinedown feel to it and I could actually hear them covering this rocking selection.
The album rocks from the very start, but I found myself wanting to hear the band slow it down and show a different side to what they have to offer. Well, I got my wish with the closing track “Wherever It Goes” and I was not disappointed. Jenny’s vocals soar on this one as she shows a tenderer, almost vulnerable side to her vocal arsenal. This song definitely displays the versatility of the band not only for Jenny’s vocal range, but also for the musical depth of the band.
Overall, I think the album is pretty damn solid. It’s an album that should be played loud and probably with plenty of room clear around you because you can’t sit still while it’s on. It’s one of those albums that would be perfect on a road trip with the windows or top down on a sunny day. It shows a lot of growth by the band both musically and lyrically. It’s fun, infectious power pop/rock with a touch of punk and a lot of sass and attitude. You can waste your hard earned money on some pre-programmed regurgitated crap that the radio shoves down your throat or you can invest it wisely by picking up Secrets by some truly talented and gifted musicians.
Don’t just take my word for it. Take a listen for yourself!
