MINNESOTA SOUND REVIEWS - 9/1/21
Review by: Jonathan Fuller, Writer @JonnyDarko3
Edited by: Andrew Perrizo, Owner/Editor @PlaylistTC
Top songs on the Minnesota Sound Playlist.
Drey dk "do u?"
Gentle nylon string plucking sets the stage for a distorted lo-fi electric guitar and delicate vocal performance on DIY musician Drey dk’s song “do u?” The track rises and falls with gorgeous vocal harmonies and ends in an impassioned repetition of the question “Do you want me?” What would be an incredibly relaxing song leaves the listener with an intriguing sense of dissonance provided by the pitchy electric guitar running through the track, emitting a real sense of pain and feeling out of place. To hear more from Drey Dk check out their latest EP “peace of mind.”
Wakefield "Drift"
“Drift” is Wakefield’s first song. The band certainly brings the energy with this debut. Blood curdling screams and frenetic drum patterns collide over classic melodic-hardcore guitar tones. The track has plenty of rhythm change ups to keep the listener engaged and ends in a particularly satisfying breakdown.
Samantha Grimes "Believe"
“Believe” by singer/songwriter Samantha Grimes blends electronic drums, piano, and electric and acoustic guitar. The driving groove supports resilient lyrics like “c’mon world, I’ll take you on.” The song is sonically reminiscent of an 80’s bop, but has an early 2000’s flare as well. This is the third single released by Grimes this year.
Eric Linden "All and Everything"
Eric Linden’s track “All and Everything” is a vocal-forward rock track. The lyrical delivery has an old-timey iconic flare to it, an almost Bob Dylan-esque tone. Linden describes his music as a blend of indie rock, jangle pop and garage rock and that’s an absolutely perfect way to describe it. The DIY production lends a sense of authenticity to the project. Linden’s solo album is scheduled to be released this fall.
The Issue "You"
A bouncing, heavy rock guitar riff opens the track “You” by local band The Issue. The riff is infectious, and reminiscent of bands like Chevelle. The vocals, drums and bass provide even more energy as the track progresses, the end result of which is a satisfying modern rock track with impeccable production to boot. The song is the second single released by the band in 2021.
Art Vandalay "Angel & Delilah"
Americana group Art Vandalay provide a classic folk ballad with “Angel & Delilah.” Tonally dark and brooding, the track features a minor chord progression and a groovy Rhodes solo. Lyrically the song has a narrative arc that draws the listener in. Influenced by acts such as Tom Petty, Neil Young, Wilco and John Prine, Art Vandalay gives the genre vibrant new life.
