Livia
08-30-2005, 08:19 PM
http://www.statenews.com/article.phtml?pk=31205
The State News, MSU's Independent Voice close window
Printed Tuesday August 30th, 2005.
A few good tracks won't save Tight Phantomz' release from mediocrity
By BENITA MEHTA
The State News
Tight Phantomz is one of those easily forgettable rock bands: They're not bad at what they do, which is generic hard rock, but they could be replaced by any one of the dozen or so other bands just like them.
The trio from Chicago formed in 2003 and was voted Best Rock Entertainer at the 23rd Annual Chicago Music Awards. They also played at the South by Southwest music festival in Austin, Texas in March.
The Phantomz' first full-length release, "Crazy When Wet," begins with a loud, resonating "yeaahhh," almost making the listener cringe when hearing the album for the first time. The first track, "House Arrest," doesn't sound much better.
But "Hash Sisters" and "Stranded", the second and third tracks, are surprisingly good, considering the first track might prevent someone from continuing with the album. The tracks are full of drums and strong vocals. "House Arrest" was a bad choice for a first track because the rest of the album only gets better. Loud guitar riffs and heavy vocals make it a true rock album; however the Phantomz seem to care more about rocking than writing creative lyrics or producing a new sound. But that doesn't have to be a bad thing.
"Sorry, Baby" strays from hard rock and begins with slow, lilting lyrics and guitar - the only semi-quiet track on the album. Though it tries to be emotional or maybe even moving, it doesn't even come close. "Powertramp" and "DUI in St. Charles" sound like they could have been hits in the mid-'90s when bands similar to Tight Phantomz ruled. The Phantomz evoke an Aerosmith mixed with a ZZ Top feel, without much of the talent or innovation. They're trying to be a '70s rock 'n' roll band, but don't stand out to be remembered.
"Do Us All a Favor" is one of those songs that could be interchanged with any other rock song that doesn't leave an impression on anyone.
The last track on the album is a cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Albatross," which isn't bad, but doesn't really fit in with the rest of "Crazy When Wet."
Although their live shows are said to be legendary by their record label, "Crazy When Wet" is only mediocre. Perhaps Tight Phantomz just needs to be seen live to be appreciated.
Check for more music coverage on Thursdays in the lowdown, The State News' entertainment section.
Location: http://www.statenews.com/article.phtml?pk=31205
All content ©2005 The State News
The State News, MSU's Independent Voice close window
Printed Tuesday August 30th, 2005.
A few good tracks won't save Tight Phantomz' release from mediocrity
By BENITA MEHTA
The State News
Tight Phantomz is one of those easily forgettable rock bands: They're not bad at what they do, which is generic hard rock, but they could be replaced by any one of the dozen or so other bands just like them.
The trio from Chicago formed in 2003 and was voted Best Rock Entertainer at the 23rd Annual Chicago Music Awards. They also played at the South by Southwest music festival in Austin, Texas in March.
The Phantomz' first full-length release, "Crazy When Wet," begins with a loud, resonating "yeaahhh," almost making the listener cringe when hearing the album for the first time. The first track, "House Arrest," doesn't sound much better.
But "Hash Sisters" and "Stranded", the second and third tracks, are surprisingly good, considering the first track might prevent someone from continuing with the album. The tracks are full of drums and strong vocals. "House Arrest" was a bad choice for a first track because the rest of the album only gets better. Loud guitar riffs and heavy vocals make it a true rock album; however the Phantomz seem to care more about rocking than writing creative lyrics or producing a new sound. But that doesn't have to be a bad thing.
"Sorry, Baby" strays from hard rock and begins with slow, lilting lyrics and guitar - the only semi-quiet track on the album. Though it tries to be emotional or maybe even moving, it doesn't even come close. "Powertramp" and "DUI in St. Charles" sound like they could have been hits in the mid-'90s when bands similar to Tight Phantomz ruled. The Phantomz evoke an Aerosmith mixed with a ZZ Top feel, without much of the talent or innovation. They're trying to be a '70s rock 'n' roll band, but don't stand out to be remembered.
"Do Us All a Favor" is one of those songs that could be interchanged with any other rock song that doesn't leave an impression on anyone.
The last track on the album is a cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Albatross," which isn't bad, but doesn't really fit in with the rest of "Crazy When Wet."
Although their live shows are said to be legendary by their record label, "Crazy When Wet" is only mediocre. Perhaps Tight Phantomz just needs to be seen live to be appreciated.
Check for more music coverage on Thursdays in the lowdown, The State News' entertainment section.
Location: http://www.statenews.com/article.phtml?pk=31205
All content ©2005 The State News