Stereoside - “Stereoside” Record Label: Bieler Bros. Records Reviewed by: Heidi Ohmer
Many different people can claim they enjoy many different genres of rock: some like metal, some like grunge, some like progressive, and there are those awesome people that love just plain ole rock n’ roll. A band that proves to have kick ass music blended with fun has to be Stereoside. If anyone is a fan, they know the bands first album, So Long, contains great hooks with catchy lyrics that will make anyone anticipate more music from these guys. Well, (release date) was the day for these fans to rock out with the release of Stereoside’s new self titled album. The CD begins with the single “Trailer Park Scum.” The delightfully named song starts off with a familiar guitar tone which delivers that feeling of being back home. Vocalist, Jeff Shields, joins the riff with his strong voice along with the groovin’ drum beat. This contagious verse transitions into the fun chorus with lyrics like “I like my girls like I like my cream/ A little bit sticky, and a little bit sweet.” This song delivers the “swagger” the band has always appeared to have. The following song “Risktaker” starts out with the heartbeat of the bass drum and yet another ripping guitar riff. The combination can remind the listener of a trip down South, and to contribute to this memory is Shield’s powerful voice. Halfway through the journey is a break-down that within shines an ear pleasing guitar solo. The first two songs pretty much set the mood for the remaining of the album and also proves that the band knows how to stay true to their roots. Further down the line, things tend to appear more personal. “Life Goes On” starts with emotional music and lyrics that could melt the coldest of hearts. With lyrics that speak of making the best of things because “Life Goes On.” The melodic music supports this message perfectly. This song, more so than others, is a blast from the past that reminds listeners staying true to yourself with some improvements is the best path to take. “Crazy and Paranoid” can only be described in one way: an example of melodic genius. Only the best of the best can create a smooth melody that hovers over a simply courageous instrumental composition. Jeff Shields sounds like a maestro with this one, in which this song definitely puts him in the spotlight with his soulful voice like no other. But wait, this tune is not just about a pretty voice-- mid-song there is a just as powerful guitar solo that beautifully relays the emotional message this song streams out. This song was the perfect ingredient to end this album. Some may say that an album should leave off with an in your face song that leaves listeners exhausted, but being a fan of these guys, I think that leaving feeling like I just had a one on one emotional confrontation is more satisfying than feeling tired and seperated.
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PRESS PLAY MAGAZINE MARCH 2011