|
Emo-Punk. Tuneful, melodic, with deep lyrics, but with incredible energy, angst, bombast, and youthful swagger is how Pete Nordstrom, co-owner of Loveless Records, describes his latest find, Vendetta Reds unique sound.
Vendetta Red is only the 8th band to sign with this relatively new label and their maiden-full length CD is the most anticipated indie release to come out of the Northwest since the "Grunge" explosion of the early 90's; and for good reason, this band is very original, both in style and sound. By capturing fans with their energetic live performances and constant touring, they have already established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative music scene.
John Richards (co-owner of Loveless) discovered the band by way of a glorified demo called Blackout Analysis. Around the same time Pete's band, Tuffy, played a show with them at the Crocodile. Nordstrom was immediately impressed with VR's high-energy show and got a hold of the demo as well. It would take another live show for Pete and John (8 months ago) to declare the band label mates to Loveless.
Despite a few line-up changes, the core of Vendetta Red has been together for 3 years. Zach Davidson on vocals, lyrics, and acoustic guitar. Erik Chapman on guitar, keyboards, and vocals. Joseph Childress on drums, keyboards and vocals. To complete the lineup and add the final touch, guitarist Justin Cronk and bass player and keyboardist Michael Vermillion were recruited. . Although many of the members are Bakersfield California transplants they consider themselves a Seattle band and have been embraced in the Northwest.
With the band fully in tact and signed to Loveless, Vendetta Red began work on their 1st effort, White Knuckled Substance. The result of their undertaking would prove to be innovative in its approach and individual in its execution.
The opening track on White Knuckled Substance, Caught You Like a Cold, opens with a stylish bass lick and distorted guitars. The track has an infectious and hard-edged groove with a melodic and soft interval in between the chorus. This style prevails through out most of the recording: introspective lyrics mixed with a hardcore attitude and harmonious breaks.
The 1st single will be the song SHATTERDAY (which is already receiving airplay). It is an excellent choice to introduce this band to the unsuspecting masses, for it encompasses all the elements of the distinct sound of Vendetta Red.
Another favorite is the cut All Cried Out; a straight-ahead Rock and Roll song with playful and catchy drumming coupled with a fuzz box guitar affect, has a Glam Rock-like resonance with a screaming 21st century twist. In sharp contrast the good fun cadence of the tune this song deals with the tragedy an aftermath of death, killing and war.
One more track the band has been advised to push is the haunting song dealing with child abuse, Stay Home. With such pensive and blunt lyrics, it becomes apparent just how intense and pissed off Zach as he exorcizes his demons during the writing process.
With an energetic lead vocalist in the sexy, swaggering Zach Davidson, and the solid rhythm section, along with the high energy guitar work, Vendetta Red are ready and willing to take their sound all over America and beyond.
TONY ENGELHART
|
