Choosing Sides Of Our Own Demise
Self-Released, 2026
9/10
Listen to Choosing Sides Of Our Own Demise
The core members of Brightwire, i.e. Samuel Barker, Kim Barker and Michael Helfenstein, are joined by Rebecca Stoll and Joel Mora for this mix of originals and covers that showcase their unique brand of rock.
The warm spirit of “Shelter” opens with vocals from Mel Torres and Jewelz Melody (of Shame On Me) for the nice balance of prettiness and grit across the Lone Justice tune, and “Two-Piece Puzzle” follows with Samuel’s gritty yet tuneful pipes alongside Kim’s inviting voice and Mora’s agile drumming.
The midpoint belongs to “4th Of July”, where Helfenstein’s well timed steel guitar helps make for a heartfelt, rootsy rocker that invites singing-along, while “Humble Narrator” brings folk-rock ideas to both the Barker’s voices and no lack of melody.
Residing close to the end, “Dashboard Lights” is a heartfelt moment that benefits much from Stoll’s precise bass and “Night On The Town” exits with a soft duet that pairs eloquent voices with cozy acoustic guitar.
There’s still some punk rock embedded in the members of Brightwire from their formative years, and their sincere vision of Americana sure sounds great in this quintet setting.
Travels well with: Brightwire- Here, But Gone; Sam Morrow- Southern Boogie