Review of the Damn Near Down CD "Snakejuice"
Typically
my reviews don’t come with a disclaimer, however in the case of Damn Near Down’s
“Snakejuice”, I will make an exception.
When you listen to this CD, it will stick with you throughout the day,
when you go to bed, and when you wake up the next morning…and you will be
perfectly fine with that!
There
are limited comparisons that can be made between Damn Near Down and other
bands. With Gar Keese on lead vocals,
Bill Melton on bass, Dana Green on lead guitar, Bob Blackburn on guitar and
vocals, and Tim Gray on drums, they have a very unique sound, all their own.
“T-Boned”
appropriately starts the album “2,3,4”.
Immediately the words “very polished” and “perfect synchronicity” come
to mind.
“Looking
Down” blends Hanoi Rocks and Alice in Chains. Damn Near Down uses a really cool effect
where the drumbeat actually coincides with the guitar licks. It does have a melancholy feel, with lyrics
such as “so sweet the memories, now I can’t believe a word you say”, “It’s
alright, I could tell you were lying” and “It’s alright there is no denying,
you would let me down again.”
"Snakejuice"
is the almost 5 minute long title track which appears to include the sound of a rattlesnake
nearing its prey. There are hints of
Egyptian tones, but with lines like “They say lightning never strikes the same
place twice my friend” and “We keep scratching lotto tickets like we think we’re
gonna’ win”, there is no doubt a modern theme.
“Last
Dance in Hollywood” slows things down a little while incorporating a rapping
effect.
“Friendship Ring” showcases Damn Near Down’s
unique sound from the first note. The
rhythm section is very prominent, framing the story of safe secrets and staying
true to your love no matter what the cost perfectly.
“Run To You” is a Bryan Adams
original. DND stays true to the original
to the point you can sing along, however they make it their own by
incorporating sharper guitar licks.
“Stay Thirsty” can be described as
motivational, almost as a cheer or cadence.
The drumbeat is reminiscent of that in a marching band.
“Mossberg” seems to be driven by
some old school metal. A 12 gauge is
referred to as one would expect by the title.
The guitar has a mirror image effect with the vocals.
Influences are a little more apparent in “Shout at the Rebel”. Artists
such as Faith No More, Kid Rock and dare I say, a little Motley Crue
immediately come to mind. They actually
fake the ending of the song to tease their audience, kick it back into full
gear momentarily, then stop on a dime.
“Fishnet Pantyhose” provides the
finale of the CD on the lightest note of all the tracks. It begins almost as a folk song, and wraps up
with plenty of emotion.
Damn Near Down will have their CD
release party at O’Sheckys, 6240 Busch Blvd., Columbus, on March 10. Snakejuice is a must add!! You can also keep up with them on facebook
and reverbnation:
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