Noise 101: CD Reviews for Nov 6
The Gay Nineties
Liberal Guilt EP
Self-released
Score: A+
The Gay Nineties, led by frontman Parker Bossley (Hot Hot Heat, Mounties), will be releasing a follow-up EP to their latest release, the Coming Together EP on Nov. 25.
Liberal Guilt starts with a big, softer sound in “Intro,” but immediately turns the energy up in “Hold Your Fire,” the punchy, rocking single of the release. This EP also features a return of “Letterman,” the dynamic, high-energy single released in January. Another stand-out track is “Turn Me On,” which is high-impact and pure rock ‘n’ roll.
The Gay Nineties are making a name for themselves in a big way, and with this latest release, you should think about adding them to your library ASAP.
— Becca Paterson
Amaranthe
Massive Addictive
Spinefarm Records
Score: A
When a band’s music can be described as “eurodance-death metal,” you know you’re in for a unique experience — and Amaranthe’s third outing truly lives up to the potential. The Swedish band layers metal riffs, electronic beats, metalcore breakdowns and catchy pop-style melodies masterfully, utilizing its three vocalists — including a new addition in Henrik Englund and the symphonic metal powerhouse Elize Ryd — in ways that allows each to shine.
While this album takes fewer risks than Amarante’s earlier albums, it is likely more accessible because of it, with the metal elements supporting the pop and dance, not overwhelming it. Highlights include the head-banging ballad “True”, the powerful electronic melodies of “Digital World” and the album’s rave-inspired single “Drop Dead Cynical.” The entire album is addictive.
— BAJ Visser
Kalsey Kulyk
Kalsey Kulyk Part 2
Phyamis Records
Score: A
The second release of a three-part EP titled Kalsey Kulyk Part 2, adds more depth to the original release.
The four-song EP starts off slow with “Let Me Go,” a song that brings out the country emotion that you turn to that station for. The heartfelt love song “Swept Away” is the second track and shows off her softer side. The standout on the EP is “Let’s Get Down,” a country song mixed with a rock edge, which gives way to a sexier side of the artist and allows her youth to shine through. The full EP takes on a softer and slower melodic beat in contrast to the original release, putting her musical abilities under the spotlight.
If you are looking for a country music EP to get you through the day, pick up both parts of Kalsey Kulyk’s EP.
— Kari Pedersen