|
|
|
BANDS: Punk
& Ska INTERESTS: Venues ETC... About
LOTD
|
Mantra:
Self-Titled single
Mantras two-song offering consists of two very different songs that are one, not so good, and then two, quite promising. I suppose the reason for showcasing vastly contradictory songs is to show Kesh Patel and Alex Routledges diversity, but it does nothing to present a firm idea of what the band is trying to say or the direction they might be heading with their music. The UK press snippets seem to bask these natives in a light of fandom: this release has proved popular with the fans and the band have already sold 800 copies. Well, that is all relative and yet to be proven as true on this side of ocean. However, after reading the following, it becomes apparent that one might benefit greatly from seeing this band live, hence the 800 fans: a superb live experience I only know from experience that bands are very often much, much better live. It would behoove a large majority of bands to record live albums I could list ten immediately, but were talking about Mantra, so I shall not. The first song, Shake Me Down, is not recorded well. Is this intentional? I cannot answer that question, but it makes the song sound like gank, and it does nothing for me. The vocals are muffled, and the instruments are out of control! Perhaps I am in a simplistic mood lately, but I really dont need a quick-paced song containing piano, bass and some sort of maraca all at the same time. I cannot concentrate no good. The second song, Forget to Breathe, is a much slower number that sounds as if more effort was applied to it. Comforting piano and heartfelt lyrics. If the rest of Mantras catalog heads in the direction that this song suggests, then they will probably enjoy more than 800 fans.
About LOTD Contact/Staff Advertise Home All content © LEFT OFF THE DIAL 2001-2005. All rights reserved. |
