Home Town
Hero’s self-titled debut album is a well-balanced mix of garage rock and pop
punk. The only thing missing from this otherwise solid CD is a true
hit single. But, as bassist Todd Burnes said, “We adopted a simple yet
focused philosophy of writing solid songs and not over thinking the
production. We wanted to make a really honest record that was a true
reflection of our live shows. There are no samplers, or DJ’s of any kinds
on this record. It’s just four guys playing music.”
All 12 tracks testify to the dynamic musical and vocal
range of the band, spanning heavy sludge rock to light airy tones, and
gritty vocals to a surprising falsetto performed by singer/guitarist Aaron
Bruno. Bruno does what the second song, “Questions,” says, “Sing it
fast and sing it with the right tone.” Bruno’s gritty tone and Drew
Stewart’s engaging guitar riffs make the 4th song “12oz,” while
Burnes and Ray Blanco, on the drums, make the 5th song, “Who’s To
Say,” with their forceful rhythms.
Even though the band members are in their early 20’s,
they show remarkable musical maturity with the song “Everything Out Of
Water.” The light waltz tune has a liquid-like sound, especially
during Bruno’s falsetto. That is to say if liquid had a sound. A
similar light mood flows through the song “Bed Of Dreams.” These
tracks provide a nice break from the harder rocking songs like “Run Right
Through,” “Riley Joe,” and “Eighteen,” which features lyrics that are simple
but fun: “All those things you’d say to me, well / made me cry myself to
sleep and / kinda think I like it / pretty sure I like it.”
Well, I’m pretty sure I like this CD. It’s not an
album that I’ll listen to everyday but definitely from time to time. Right
now they may be heroes in their hometown out in California, but they’ve
shown the potential to be heroes in every town. -Edward
Vassallo
Links:
www.hometownheromusic.com
www.maverick.com |
