the trade...
The first track 'Fight Club' shocked me quite honestly, the vocals are gruff, strong and dominating. I feel at home straight away, it is easy to listen to and easy to lose yourself in. Imagine a high powered businessman, he leaves work, gets in his Mercedes, drives home casually... It isn't until he gets home that he really finds himself; clicking play, he rocks out to this cd. See what I mean? Unexpected.
'The Dealer' is another great example, the second track is filled with arse-kicking drums and some shaggy guitar which suits the vocals so well. I hate hearing tracks which sound like the vocalist is singing to Britney and playing a Manson track, a big no no. However, this is different, you can't compare it to anything else on the music scene. The vocals, the music, perfect.
This album has been a nice surprise, not because I doubted the source, nor looked at the artwork and thought "god no..", but just because it's not every day you come across such talent. I think I will definitely be putting this in my car!
The track '20' reminds me of Rob Thomas, every so slightly! Although it is different, a bit heavier and down to earth, if that makes any sense...
The guitar really makes the track 'Middleman' with a slow lasting just the right amount of time, it breaks the track up in a good way, before the vocals return and bring even more life to the track.
'Confused in the pet shop' - What a title! That is pretty cool. I just have a scene running through my mind by simply reading it; a man standing in a pet shop trying to decide between a hamster and a gerbil and screaming with the decision! Maybe that's just my own insanity creeping through a little there...
The pace is picked up as the track 'Do you want it' reaches my ears, the drums keeping the track at a steady yet quick pace and here comes the finger tapping on my desk again. Oh if I could only play drums...The vocals feel quite desperate and connected with the lyrics, yet I'm waiting for that explosive moment... A bit of a scream maybe?, as the tension builds and it feels like they are needing to go crazy, building up and up.
At this point there are six more tracks for me to talk about, I feel spoilt for choice! 'Empire (Don't talk back)' has a bit of a western feel to it, I could imagine it being used in films and even games such as Red Dead Revolver. It ups its pace, and it's great to see the experimentation throughout this album; with it's ups and downs, different flows and use of vocals. They are clearly talented, why aren't these guys on the radio? Speaking of which!...We are in discussions with a radio station at the moment, so watch this space!
I'm starting to think I've found my favourite track so far, 'No fighting' is everything I could ask for; a buzzing pace, some brilliant vocals, and the music? Superb.
Their style changes slightly as it reaches 'Gun in my hand'... This shows they are far from a one trick pony, they can experiment, develop and release different, unique music. This track is rather relaxing, and is a nice contrast to the others.
The few left each have their own personality, 'In colour' is full of heart and emotion; it feels quite deep and personal also. The Trade demonstrate what music is all about, personality, charisma, thoughts and emotions. Well, that is my own interpretation anyway. 'Beg steal and borrow' sounds like a pirate's motto to me! It has an almost bouncy feel to it, with a subtle back beat that is sleek and slides through the track. I am warming to their music more and more, it just grows on you I guess. The final track ladies and gentleman is 'Let it all out'...
Just as the title describes, they give it all they've got with such passion and drive for what they believe in; making brilliant music.
I would love to see these guys live, they feel genuinely hardworking and determined. If you want to see what all the fuss is about, and you damn well should, then check out their Myspace.
P.S
'Lie in the dark' is ready and waiting for release, and will be available from the 14th of June from iTunes and all major download sites.
Brought to you by Suzie