Happy Hour

color.

2004-02-19

Big thumbs up on the debut recording from this young Grand Rapids trio. Their influences seem to be of the 90’s middle-America indie rock variety - from Afghan Whigs to Weezer to Pavement to Red House Painters - and their bag of tricks contains echoes of all these bands and a thousand others.
Yet, these songs have a vibe that’s all their own.

Here, Brent Shirey shows he has all the makings of a fine young songwriter, creating seven tuneful, emotive songs that waltz and sigh, rock and howl. But, no one will listen to your words if your recording sucks and, thankfully, the production obstacle is overcome in fine fashion. The rhythm section drives things along at an even clip and drummer Scott Rider offers invigorating counter-point vocals.

Better yet, the songs are given room to take on lives of their own, often clocking in at 5, 6 and even 9 minutes, with cello and organ brought out to add some spice.

Now the burning question:
Will Jammies VI become Happy Hour?

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Rock

  • reviewed 05/2016

    Noam Weinstein
    On Waves

  • reviewed 01/2006

    THE GOURDS
    Heavy Ornamentals

  • reviewed 08/2006

    Jennifer O’Connor
    Over The Mountain, Across The Valley & Back To The Stars

  • reviewed 12/2009

    ZEVIOUS
    After the Air Raid

  • reviewed 07/2017

    Gabriel Wolfchild And The Northern Light
    Mornings Like These EP

  • reviewed 12/2010

    THE AUTUMN DEFENSE
    Once Around

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.