On the Threshold
Posted March 12, 2008
By IronJedi,
There's a new player on the musical field in Vertical Shift Records- a mission and ministry-oriented label. They've gathered an impressive roster of artists, in a very short time, that includes MTV's #1 undiscovered band Re:Zound (review forthcoming), the previously reviewed Out of Ruin and Ever Stays Red, their latest band to release a national debut through the label's recent deal with EMI Music/CMG Distribution.
The band's national bow, On the Brink of It All, is a hook-laden, high-energy disc full of appealing modern/alternative rock. Fans of guitar and percussion-driven rock anthems will find there is no shortage of aural agreeableness. There's no lack of intelligence and originality in the heartening lyrics either. The band's 4 year tenure as an independent act and intense touring schedule serves them well, as a polished lyrical and musical maturity is evident throughout.
Dustin Carlson's vocals are conveyed with a strident intensity that avoids shrillness or impenetrableness. Carlson obviously sings from somewhere deep within his being and does so with an abandon and passion that rivals Audio Adrenaline's frontman Mark Stuart. His timbre, style and delivery bring to mind Nevertheless' Josh Pearson and TFK's Trevor McNevan.
The Arizona-based band recently wrapped a tour with Kutless, and have also performed with Jeremy Camp, Sanctus Real, Delirious?, Everyday Sunday, Falling Up, Seven Places, and others. Nick DePartee of Kutless had this to say about the band: "Ever Stays Red is one of the hardest working bands I have ever met. I think this hard work shines brightly through in this record. Catchy melodies that hook the heart at first listen."
"We love these guys and their music," adds Chris Rohman of Sanctus Real. "We've had the pleasure of touring together, so it's exciting to hear some new songs... and I can say this is definitely Ever Stays Red at their best!"
With such ringing endorsements, Ever Stays Red is a band that belongs on your radar. Fans of modern rock bands Fono, This Beautiful Republic, Kids in the Way, Stellar Kart, and Thousand Foot Krutch shouldn't hesitate to get this first-rate debut. View All Music And Book Reviews By IronJedi | View IronJedi's Profile
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