V
Soundflat, 2020
9/10
There’s certainly no shortage of varied bands that exist in New York City today, but few are as exciting and memorable as The Electric Mess, who have been forging sounds inspired by every decade since the ‘60s for 13 years now. On V, the quintet run the gamut of variations of rock, creating an experience you won’t forget anytime soon that’s executed flawlessly.
“Too Far” stars the album with a soaring, vibrant approach of well layered psyche-folk that makes an immediate impression, and “Bad Man” follows with a fluid rock approach that takes nods across The Pond with some soulful R&B flavor, too.
Halfway through, “City Sun” brings us back to the early days of punk with gritty melody in an energetic atmosphere, while “Space Metal” takes a more abrasive turn into metallic tendencies with driving guitar work. “Before The World Blows Up”, the album’s best, then recruits surf rock ideas amid some fine organ work that’s so well done it alone is worth the price of admission.
Close to the end, “Strange Words” is full of diverse rock ideas from the past with some incredible vocal work, and “After The Money’s Gone” exits on a quieter note that’s no less impactful with a slightly darker quality alongside vocal harmonies and charming sing-alongs.
Esther Crow (vocals, rhythm guitar, percussion), Oweinama Blu (keyboards, vocals), Dan Crow (guitar, percussion), Derek Davidson (bass, percussion) and Alan J. Camlet (drums, vocals, percussion) have penned a rock’n’roll effort here that’s like few others, and if you’re like me, you’ll enjoy every minute of it.
Travels well with: Jesse Malin- Outsiders; The Hold Steady- Teeth Dreams