Drift Effect - Be Something
Rating
RIYL
AudioslavePatrol
Seemless
doubleDrive
Tracklist
1 ---------2 Shake
3 Systematic
4 The Clutter
5 Indecision
6 Legend Of A Native Woman
7 Listen To Me
8 On A Hill
9 Not For Good
10 No Rides
11 Solstice
12 Be Something
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Sometimes things get a little one-sided on what’s covered here at the Decoy. So every now and then it’s nice to take a break from all the artsy-fartsy indie sketches, useless something-core, and scrawny mascara-wearing boys donning girls’ pants. After all, there’s still room in the rotation for some good old-fashioned rock n’ roll. Now before you consistent readers start thinking ahead of what’s about to be stated, Minneapolis’ Drift Effect has a lot more to offer than a quick-fix nook to fill in the days it takes for that new Lis Er Stille or Anberlin release to arrive in the mail. Be Something is quite an impressive upstart release. So strong in fact that it’s a highly probable destiny that the majors quickly take notice and eventually poison them into becoming the next Hinder -- or worse, the next Nickelback.
But let’s cross that bridge when we come to it, shall we? Pessimistic assumptions sidelined, the band’s present is commendable enough for those who still have an ear for the style of music they write. From beginning to end, tight musicianship is plentiful on this first LP release (as well as their previous self-titled EP). The album brandishes rugged riffs that pounce between traditional post-grunge power chords, retro buzzsaw-esque southern metal, and semi-progressive noodling. Energetic textbook military drumming backs up this weathered technique, cohesively and strategically timed to conjure that famous pop-metal hook that gets kids’ heads bobbing uncontrollably. Drift Effect puts the final stamp on their brand through the passionate vocals of lead singer Ray Smart, who also possesses a tested style that hovers impeccably between influences of Chris Cornell and Eddie Vedder.
In layman’s terms, just think of Audioslave’s only commendable effort -- their self-titled LP; doubleDrive’s first and only decent album, 1000 Yard Stare; Seemless’ current work, What Have We Become, and send to the blender with the gentler side of Patrol’s Destinations, and you’ve got a decent idea about what to expect from these guys. Again, before you seasoned Decoy followers start thinking, “been there, done that,” these guys still manage to skillfully construct songs that are never cliche or predictable despite the very familiar dynamics.
Leading tunes such as straightforward dude-rock grooves “Shake” and “No Rides” affirm the group’s knowledge of and ability to make accessibility and creativity coexist. It’s a feat that’s been missing from the post-grunge genre since the rise of weak, one-hit wonders (sometimes two) such as Seether, Breaking Benjamin, Shinedown, Crossfade, heck, the list of blandness could go on and on.
Yet, coupled with Drift Effect’s proficiency at creating all-can-listen sounds that excel over their less-talented peers, probably their biggest selling point is the earnest nature of their lyrics. If they aren’t delivering a kick to the testicles with the anger-driven political roasts like “The Clutter,” they draw honest emotions of estranged relationships through the story of “Not For Good.” The latter mentioned is the type of love cry that Three Days Grace or The Butterfly Effect simply can’t write without being laugh-out-loud hokey. Arguably, the crowing achievement of the band’s attention to unpretentious, thought-provoking words resides in their closing track. “Be Something” plays out in the same style of serenade that made millions fall in love with Creed, sans Scott Stapp’s hypocritical facade.
Hopefully, this level of integrity will be long-lasting for career entirety, as it often disappears for other bands of their caliber. Will Drift Effect gradually de-evolve with each new album release? The trend report created by this band’s genre says that it’s inevitable. Still, just like everyone before them, they have the chance to prove us stuck-up connoisseurs wrong. Have faith.
--MJ Austin
Comments
Anyways, your review was pretty damn accurate.. the whole time I listened to this I thought either Vedder or Cornell for vocals. The music actually made me think a lot of Candlebox too. I think it was a decent first effort for the "good ol' rock" format, and I could easily see them going to Nickelback territory if they don't keep integrity. Likewise, it's agreed with the right moves and building on their foundation, they could easily build a career fitting for a true rock lover.
"These are our lives, but did they ever even matter - are we worth remembering?"
- "Tip The Scales"
Rise Against
Minnesota
Find me EVERYWHERE:
Really? Wow, you both surprised me. I'm used to when I had mentioned them to people I got blank stares (no pun intended). Yeah, once upon a time, they were top favs in my book, hence the screen name I've used in one shape or form for years now.
"These are our lives, but did they ever even matter - are we worth remembering?"
- "Tip The Scales"
Rise Against
Dallas, Texas
Recently, I did the Ben Rice thing and listened to every CD I own in alphabetical order. When I got to doubleDrive I quickly got reacquainted with why 1000 Yard Stare rules and Blue in Face was meh. It’s not like DD couldn’t make the transition to a more streamlined sound, as I thought 11:59 and Imprint were amazing songs. But much like other bands of their style tryin to make this jump, the rest of the songs sucked.
Though I do wish I could have heard this other version. Sounds interesting. And typical... seeing as how a label can destroy a band.
Don't know alot about the band Double Drive but I do agree that a label can destroy a band..... It's kind of funny how labels always seam to be looking for something different and original. Yet when the bands get signed they are encouraged to be something entirley generic....
I will also say that I aquired Drift Effect "Be Something" at their CD release show...I just happened to stop into the venue the night of the release. I did think they were a fantastic live band. But hadn't yet had a chance to listen to the cd. Then I was cruising Decoy music and noticed you had reviewed it. As I read the review it was interesting to see that you put them on a pretty big pedestal. Saying they are more talented than some of the bands I love very much. So, my interest tweaked, I cracked open the disc. And I will say that I agree with you 110%. And to know they are from my hometown. I really think it is only a matter of time before they are national and if they indeed do get signed to a major can they be intelligent enough to keep thier integrity. Because as familiar as their music is, at the same time, it is something completely different.
Atlanta
http://www.myspace.com/sk8terboi2006
Atascadero, CA
wtf are you talking about? this is why your first name got banned.. this is a band
Decoymusic.com (CEO/Founder)
Blue Reef Design Studios (Web Development)
http://aarontroy.tumblr.com
To keep nick meyer out of Decoy.
Aaron made me laugh heartily at this. Fuckin nice man.
"These are our lives, but did they ever even matter - are we worth remembering?"
- "Tip The Scales"
Rise Against