Craig Dougan - Still Rising - Album Review

Track Listing

1.Deep Inside
2. Here We Come
3. Out On Patrol
4. Drop The Puck
5. Someday Soon (for Gord Downie)
6. Inherit The Sun
7. I'm Feeling Glad
8. Casey Is Gone
9. I'm Home
​10. Do What You Want To
© 2017

All songs written & Produced by Craig Dougan
Mixed by Wayne Bond at Black Ridge Studios, Cambridge, ON
Mastered by Harry Hess at HBomb Mastering
View on iTunes



Since the Fall of 1990, Craig Dougan has fronted  The Almost Hip - the longest running Tragically Hip tribute in Canada. An assiduous musician that's evident by the tracks on his latest release 'Still Rising' (released on December 1, 2017).  A collection of tunes that illustrate Craig's songwriting prowess mated with his expertise on the guitar and bass. Vocally, Craig delivers his words with conviction and feeling. The listener can't help but believe every word he is singing and find some correlation to their own experiences. Along with new songs, there are four previously released tracks that can be found on the EP 'Hard Rock Rising'  (released in 2015). 

He has assembled some fantastic musicians to play on 'Still Rising'. Rob Taylor, Wayne Bond, George Petrou all appear on drums, John Petrou on bass. ​Paul Woods on lead guitar, and Craig handles the remaining guitar, bass and vocals.
​
​The Kitchener native is no stranger to some of the most sought after stages in Ontario. He's played at the iconic Horseshoe Tavern with its checkerboard floors. The once longest bar in the world, LuLu's Roadhouse. Even appearing at numerous Ribfests & festivals throughout Southern Ontario and countless other venues.

For anyone who has seen Craig live, be it with 'The Almost Hip' or the 'Craig Dougan Trio', one thing that is undeniable is he has that charisma that a frontman requires to captivate their audience. Regardless of the size of venue or number of people in attendance, Craig is entertaining to watch and delivers a great show.  
​
​​Right out of the gates 'Deep Inside' opens the album in true rock guitar fashion. Straightforward lyrics, it's definitely a terrific tune with a catchy beat and hook. A balance of each instrument, vocals included, it creates a fun, high energy song to get the album started.

​There's no unnecessary layering or addition of bells and whistles on any of the tunes. Proof that the "less is more" mentality is present on songs like  'Here We Come' and  'Out on Patrol'. The latter which was the song Craig entered in the 2015 Hard Rock Toronto competition.

Watch Video: 'Here We Come'

Many of the songs on 'Still Rising' have that simple blend of guitar, bass, drums, and vocals all which make them enjoyable to listen to. The songs are genuine and not contrived.

It doesn't get any more Canadian than the hockey themed 'Drop The Puck'. It's a perfect example how a catchy hook and relatable lyrics can make a song a hit. Containing all the right elements, it could definitely be a commercial success.

​On October 17, 2017 the Country mourned the passing of Gord Downie. Obviously fronting The Almost Hip for decades, it was no surprise that Craig pays tribute to the late Hip singer, who he had the pleasure of meeting back in the late '90s. The song 'Someday Soon' is fitting for anyone who has lost someone important in their lives.

A personal favourite on the album is 'Inherit The Sun'. With a slight acoustic feel, it features fellow Almost Hip member, Paul Woods on lead guitar. It's a gentler side to Craig's vocals, but still powerful. A great example of a song that combines rock, country rock with a bluesy feel to it. It really can cross over and appeal to multiple genres.

You can easily hear similarities in his music to Sam Roberts, 54-40 and of course the Hip. He has shared the stage with some iconic Canadian musicians namely, Kim Mitchell, Colin James, April Wine and Trooper. Ironically the very first time I ever seen The Almost Hip was when they were support for Trooper back in 1998 at the legendary LuLu's Roadhouse in Kitchener.

The next two tracks, 'I'm Feeling Glad' and 'Casey is Gone'  were also on the 'Hard Rock Rising' EP. Both tracks possess that unmistakable Craig Dougan sound. ​ The vocals saturate the tracks with the addition of wicked guitar riffs and solos.

Most tracks I found hit me the first time listening to them. I had a greater appreciation for 'I'm Home' after a few listens. While it wasn't one particular thing that stood out, I was drawn to the more rock oriented tracks on the album over this one. But as I listened to it more, it did grow on me and found myself singing along and actually enjoying it.

The closing track on 'Still Rising'' is another track previously released on the EP.  'Do What You Want To'. ​
The song has that instant hook and melody that in no time you are grooving along with. 

Watch Video for 'I'm Feeling Glad'

Individually, the tracks can carry themselves fine. Collectively they are a cohesive group of tunes that showcase different aspects of Craig's vocals and playing style.

Having had the opportunity to hear some of these songs performed live, I was already a fan of some of them. Listening to the cd multiple times now,  I can say I have a greater appreciation for the songs and Craig's songwriting in particular.

If you're looking for a straight up rock and roll cd, with no unnecessary gimmicks and not overproduced, then 'Still Rising' is the perfect choice.

'Still Rising' is available at any of Craig's live shows. Or contacting him through Facebook for purchasing. Some of the proceeds from each CD sold, will go to The Brain Cancer Institute.

​For show dates, for both the Trio and Almost Hip, follow both bands on Facebook (Links below). 

                                                                                         Also Available

 Special thanks to Craig for the cds and for always being welcoming at his shows. Definitely looking forward to more gigs in 2018. I wish you all the success!

DISCOGRAPHY
Still Rising (CD No.3) - 2017
Hard Rock Rising (CD No.2) - 2015
Craig Dougan - The Project (1998)

Craig Dougan 
​Official Facebook Page
Official ReverbNation Profile
Official YouTube ChannelOfficial Spotify
​
​The Almost Hip
The Almost Hip Official WebsiteThe Almost Hip Official Facebook Page                                                                                

Also published on Kaotic Notes

Mojo Stone - Chasing Ghosts Album Review

Track Listing

1. Soulsucker
2. Losing My Mind
3. Come With Me
4. On The Killing Floor Again
5. Lighten Up
6. Tangled
7. Calypso Calls
8. Time Passes By
9. Chasing Ghosts
​©2017 

Mojo Stone
Simon Visco: Vocals, Guitar, Mandolin,Keyboards/Synthesizers
Ryan Burow: Bass Guitar
Nick Militello: Drums, Auxillary Percussion
All Songs written & performed by Mojo Stone
Produced by Mojo Stone & Ron Hensberry


In two short years, since releasing their self-titled debut album on December 15, 2015, Mojo Stone is back with their sophomore album 'Chasing Ghosts'. The nine songs on the disc present each member's growth since the debut release. The deeper lyrics and tighter arrangements allow each song to have its own dynamics that ultimately resonates with the listener. 

After meeting Simon (vocals) in the summer of 2015, I had the opportunity to review Mojo Stone's first CD. From the very first listen, I was instantly a fan of what Simon, Nick (drums) and Ryan (bass) were trying to convey through their music. When I had heard that they were working on new material and a possible second release was going to happen in the Fall of 2017, I was eager to hear it.

Photo courtesy: Michael Patenaude of High Gain Photo

'Chasing Ghosts'  was released on October 13, 2017.  Sometimes artists fall victim to the sophomore album curse. After listening to the the disc numerous times, it's safe to say that Mojo Stone has avoided that sometimes tragic end to bands just beginning to find their place in the music world. 

One thing that I've come to appreciate with Mojo Stone's music is that they effortlessly appeal to a wider cross section of listeners than just those who may enjoy the classic rock genre.

If you're a fan of the '60s to the late '70s, then 'Chasing Ghosts' is just for you. As a listener, I can see how the songs could draw from the influences of the giants from those time periods.

The album does however, cross all eras and genres, and surely will have something for everyone who loves rock and roll. ​The trio do a brilliant job in playing their music with heart and soul.

Photo courtesy: Michael Patenaude of High Gain Photo

On 'Chasing Ghosts', the vocals are profoundly powerful. Simon once again delivers his words with precision and passion, which is evident that he not only believes what he's singing but feels every word. 

An extraordinary lyricist, you sometimes forget that this is a young man just barely out of highschool.  The words in the songs are reminiscent of an old soul who has felt the pain and sorrow.  You can hear this in the track 'Time Passes By'. 

​Another stand out track that demonstrates Simon's vocal range and sincerity in his deliverance of the song is the sophisticated, yet haunting 'Calypso Calls'. 

The structure of the song, whether it be intended to or not, takes the listener on a sonic roller coaster ride for five minutes.

All instruments, work well together and from the drums, bass, guitar and vocals, it showcases each member's astounding talent.

Photo courtesy: Michael Patenaude of High Gain Photo

Ryan acts as a liaison for the drums and vocals/guitar. Throughout the album, he embellishes the groove yet remains in the bass player's role, in the pocket. A personal favourite track off the album is  'On The Killing Floor Again'.

​The first 13 seconds is just Ryan and there is that hook that draws you in. The track takes me back to John Paul Jones' iconic bass intro in 'Dazed & Confused'. 

The track plays with vocals, bass, drums and when you throw in a harmonica on top of that, you have one hell of a game of tag. The play between the vocals and harmonica is striking and makes for a great song all around.

Ryan's playing adds depth to each song, along with a groove that collectively with Nick's drumming, they form a strong rhythm section which is a great asset for Mojo Stone.

Fast out of the gates and kicking the album off is 'Soul Sucker'. With an array of unbridled sounds and effects, the song is a foolproof way to introduce your album.

Photo courtesy: Michael Patenaude of High Gain Photo

The commerciality of the album's first single, 'Lighten Up' could easily find it's home on any rock music radio station's playlist. You can't ignore the fact that Mojo Stone has a solid beat keeper in Nick. 

Nick's drums are prominent throughout 'Chasing Ghosts'. He doesn't avoid the occasional fill if it's going to enhance the song overall. Anchoring the band, he maintains the tempo for each song.

​'Losing My Mind' is another one of those songs that begins with a hook and with addition of the guitar and bass, it keeps you there until Simon's vocals come in like a freight train.

​Track six, 'Tangled', is a labyrinth of guitar picking, with an intro that brings back memories of an early Led Zeppelin track. The fusion of lead and backing vocals give that haunting feel to the song. Yet again, another superb track on the album.

Much like 'Lighten Up', track three 'Come With Me', could without a doubt be a radio hit. At first listen to, this listener can pull a bit of what feels like a Doors influence, but don't get too comfortable. Within 30 seconds, the song kicks into second gear. It's just another great rock track on 'Chasing Ghosts'.

The heavy hitting title track 'Chasing Ghosts' is a wonderful blend of all the instruments, including vocals wrapped up in just over four minutes. It's one of those songs that is not overly produced or editted, and just comes down to being the perfect way to close the album.  ​

Sure you can make comparisons to legendary rock bands or even your local bar bands, but Mojo Stone is truly one of a kind group. The album overall is a great effort by the Buffalo, New York trio. There's no grandstanding by any member. They all excel with their instrument and with the numerous live shows that they've done over the years, it's greatly assisted in helping them hone their craft.

It has recently been announced on their Facebook Page, that after two upcoming concert dates, (December 9th & 31st. Both in Buffalo, NY), Mojo Stone will be taking a hiatus. Here's hoping that it is only temporary and we will once again will have some new music by these great talented men.

Photos by: Taylor Sorrentino

Extra special thanks to Simon, Nick and Ryan for the amazing music!

You can purchase 'Chasing Ghosts' at the following:
Official Bandcamp Page
​
Be sure to follow Mojo Stone on:
Official Facebook Page
Official Twitter
Official YouTube Channel
Official Soundcloud
Official Spotify


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Originally posted on KaoticNotes.com

Gianni Paci

Long before he was legal, Gianni Paci was sharing the stage with rock stars like Ace Frehley of Kiss, Steven Adler of Guns N Roses and the late Mike Starr of Alice In Chains. He’s been in the studio with the likes of Gail Ann Dorsey (David Bowie, Gwen Stefani), Jon Anderson (Yes, King Crimson) and Mike Keneally (Frank Zappa, Steve Vai). Gianni even toured with the infamous Butthole Surfers, earning a dedicated spot on their live album, “Live At The Forum London,” as the band sings “Happy Birthday” to him in front of that sold-out crowd.

Photo: Ryan Jay

Having performed at music festivals like Austin City Limits in Texas, Zappanale in Germany and Musikfest in Pennsylvania, Gianni learned the ropes while in the ring, honing his craft in front of audiences far and wide. Songwriting was a talent that sprouted even earlier, as he wrote his first original piece of music at the tender age of eight. “It just seemed to pour out of me so naturally,” Gianni recalls, reflecting on his propensity towards poetically simple songs that are as alluring in their charm as they are surprising in their depth.

Gianni released two full-length albums of original material under his old pseudonym, The Pine Hollows. This work landed Gianni on the cover of Performer Magazine and helped him to establish a considerable presence in the NYC music scene.

An online feature at Tiger Beat labeled him “The Cutest Boy You’re Not Crushing On Yet,” claiming, “[Gianni] will be bursting onto the mainstream music scene soon,” while Darryl Norrell of Aquarian Weekly wrote, "Gianni’s been likened to Buddy Holly and it’s appropriate, not in the timbre of his voice but in the mannerisms and the writing, airy and innocently heart-on-sleeve.”
​
His first solo release, “Walking Through A Movie Scene” [EP], ups the ante, as each analog-tracked song is accompanied by a visual vignette. The cover photo was shot by up-and-coming photographer Ryan Jay, and is an homage to an early David LaChapelle work. Blackbook Magazine premiered the video for second single, “Too Good To Be True,” writing, “we’re kind of obsessed.”

Photo: Gianni Paci

PRESS RELEASE:

This Led Zeppelin cover was performed live at Glen Cove Downtown Sounds last August, where Gianni Paci opened for The Lords of 52nd St., Billy Joel’s original backing band. “It was thrilling to partake in the living history of that show,” Gianni says, where those fabled 70’s studio musicians reunited in their own backyard.

​Gianni's raw and spirited take on “Rock and Roll” channels the essence of Robert Plantand Jimmy Page, two rock legends he adores. “I cut my teeth learning that catalog of music, and was having the time of my life singing and playing guitar that night,” he muses. Much like the widely circulated bootlegs from Zeppelin’s heyday, this lo-fi audience recording of Gianni’s rendition mirrors that vintage, “had-to-be-there” vibe. And the smoky, psychedelic animated video accompaniment, featuring what live footage of the performance exists, only deepens that classic-LP aura.

Photo: Gianni Paci

Recent Press:

5. February 8, 2017 - Atwood Magazine, Video Premiere.
4. October 31, 2016 - Impose Magazine, Video Premiere.
3. August 10, 2016 - Performer Magazine, Video Premiere.
2. May 2, 2016 - Pancakes And Whiskey, Video Premiere.
1. February 8, 2016 - Baeble Music, Video Premiere.


​“Smoked The Wrong Stuff” is now available @ giannipaci.com.
4 songs + 4 music videos. Limited edition of 1,000.

​
Follow Gianni on Social Media:
YouTube Channel
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

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Gianni has chose us to premiere his video for 'Rock and Roll'. A fun, animated video backed with his performance of the Led Zeppelin classic. It's bright, entertaining and showcases Mr. Paci's talent, not only as a vocalist, but also as a guitarist. The video is produced, directed and edited by Gianni himself.
​
The performance is from August 12, 2016, at Glen Cove Downtown Sounds. 

We would like to thank Gianni for sharing his words, music and video with all of our members.
An amazing talent, with only the brightest future in the music world. All the best wishes!!

Led Zeppelin-Ultimate Fan Page Facebook
Twitter
YouTube Channel

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Rose Cora Perry

Mystery Man Photography

Mystery Man Photography

Rose Cora Perry is no stranger to stages throughout North America.  Having played to audiences as large as 500,000, she can still connect on many levels to her fans and continues to lend her name to causes that mean a great deal to her.  But, who is Rose Cora Perry? For starters, she is a Musician, Songwriter, Model, Activist, Spokesperson, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. The London, Ontario native has a resume that reads for someone beyond her years. Barely in her thirties, Rose has accomplished more than some only can dream of.

​​Before she was ten, she had classical voice lessons and wrote her first song. As a teenager she not only began winning modelling awards, starring in music videos, but founded her own record label and taught herself how to play the guitar. Out of her teens she was performing at reputable festivals such as Vans Warped Tour and Wakefest. She's had her music licensed to MTV and Mazda. Aside from her music career, she graduated with honours from both Fanshawe College and the University of Western Ontario and even has a black belt in Karate.

Rose has been performing on stages throughout Canada and the United States for the last six years. She's been an honourary guest to the Grammy Awards, has had her music played on countless radio stations and appeared on both Fanshawe TV and Rogers Daytime TV. You can read Rose's complete list of achievements on her Official Website.

In anticipation of the release of Rose's sophomore album 'Onto the Floor', she has released two videos to promote the singles 'Away I Go' and 'Six Feet Under'.

The music video trilogy begins with 'Away I Go'. It tells the story of a young and upcoming musician, who has the support of her partner (played by bandmate Tyler Randall), or so it seems. The video combines footage of the songstress auditioning for music executives to a dramatic visual of the heartbroken leading lady sprawled on the floor among scattered rose petals and broken glass.

Watch 'Away I Go'

Her haunting vocals compliment the lyrics and it's quite evident that what Rose has is something very special and makes her one of a kind.

It is with great honour to have had the opportunity to have Rose answer a few questions for our website. 

They say music can cross borders. Your music seems to draw from many genres. Swing, pop, punk, rock. Do you feel this is an important attribute for an artist to be so flexible when it comes to their craft?

Mystery Man Photography

RCP: Absolutely! I feel the best artists are ones who are diverse in their tastes and influences: recognizing that there is something valuable and inspiring in all art forms. While I obviously have my favourites when it comes to bands (and genres!), I think the only way to evolve as an artist and songwriter is to be ever expansive when it comes to what one draws their creativity from. Further, I think it’s important to challenge oneself as an artist and being open to new ideas, concepts and noises allows you to do just that!

​Your resume is quite impressive, from businesswoman, entertainer, model, musician, do you find it hard to juggle which hat you are going to be wearing at any given time?
​You must have been told you're a role model for many young women, or people of any age. How does that make you feel?

RCP: Indeed. The work-life-fun balance, I think, is likely difficult if not seemingly unattainable at times, to most. It’s even more difficult when as a musician/entrepreneur, you need to still work a conventional 9-5 to fund one’s dreams.

The reality is that most independent artists, such as myself, work two full-time jobs (ie: one to pay the bills and one to fulfill one’s spirit); accordingly sleep deprivation and a limited social life are very real things. However, when you’re doing what you love, it makes it worthwhile. Big dreams require sacrifice and hard work. There are no two ways about it.
 
With respect to being denoted a “rolemodel”, let me first say I am incredibly grateful for the many amazing people I’ve had in my own life who’ve inspired and encouraged me to reach for the stars, including, above all my mom.

She’s a remarkable woman and I truly couldn’t have accomplished a good deal of what I have without her by my side, helping me navigate both the highs and lows of the biz.
 
I merely hope to pay this positivity forward and help others (men and women alike, hopefully) through the power of music.

Your album 'Onto the Floor' is about to be released next month. What can your fans expect from this collection of songs? Can you also describe a bit of the writing process for this album, for example, influences, events or inspirations for the songs.
 
RCP: I would say that “Onto the Floor” represents me finding myself and my “true” sound as an artist. In my former bands, while I was the songwriter, the other members brought their influences into the equation when we all added our respective parts and in the process, the songs took different directions from what I had originally conceived. My first solo album too was highly experimental as I was in a very emotional state when I wrote/recorded it. I was still coming to grips with the breakup of Anti-Hero and the loss of that part of my life and identity. I don’t think I was fully ready to accept my fate as a “solo artist” and so I struggled in terms of trying to find myself/my “sound”.
 
“Onto the Floor”, on the other hand, is unconventional BUT unapologetically so. While its direction changed several times along the way (ie: I worked on it for four years), I really couldn’t be happier with the result and honestly feel it’s my most authentic work.

Mystery Man Photography

It’s both hard and soft, aggressive and melodic, vulnerable yet strong – it’s multi-faceted and diverse just as I am as a person and a musician. I really strove with this album, in particular, to tie my roots as a classically trained vocalist into my rock’n’roll aesthetic. I worked with some incredibly talented session players and to bring things full circle, I hired the very same mastering engineer who made Anti-Hero’s “Unpretty” shine.

As far as what influenced this album? Well, life as it were! There’s definitely a lot of material which reflects on my experiences in the music biz as well as tales of lost love and betrayal. ​

​But on the converse there are also songs which celebrate the beauty of loving someone and being “in love”, as well as tunes about finding the strength within yourself to keep moving forward in times of despair.

I truly hope it resonates with people and that they hear/feel pieces of themselves in it.

You’ve worked with some non-profit organizations, how do you feel that someone in your position can help with these causes?

RCP: I think irrespective of one’s position or role(s) in life, you can ALWAYS help. There will always be others who are less fortunate who could use your assistance in some capacity. Every little bit makes a difference.

I think as someone who is in the media, it’s important to set a positive example and give back where you can. I enjoy lending my talents as a Speaker, Emcee and Performer to various non-for-profit events and encourage other artists to do so!

​Your three visions are: To Inspire, Provoke Thought, To Relate. Do you feel that with your words and music you are in fact accomplishing those visions?

RCP: All I can say is that I’m trying. I’ll leave it up to my listeners to decide if I’ve accomplished these goals.

​With everything you have already successfully accomplished, is there still anything on your 'bucket list' that you are hoping to one day cross off?

RCP: Oh so so so many things! I’d LOVE to share the stage with Steven Tyler – lending my vox to his, harmony-style. I’d LOVE to tour Europe. I’d LOVE to perform in a stadium to hundreds of thousands of people. I’d LOVE to perform on a late show. I’d LOVE to have a hit single.

The “bucket list” for any aspiring musician knows no bounds as our heads are always up in the stars.

What does it mean to you to be a Canadian artist?

RCP: It means being able to follow in the footsteps of many amazing talents like Alanis, Tegan & Sara, Matt Good, Loreena McKennitt, The Killjoys, The Gandharvas and so so many others!

Mystery Man Photography

I am grateful to have the support of my fellow Canucks and am thankful for all of the opportunities living in this great country has afforded me.​

To commemorate the release of her second single from 'Onto The Floor', Rose has released her newest video for  'Six Feet Under'.  The story is a continuation from the beautiful, yet betraying 'Away I Go'.

After being double crossed by her partner, our songstress pours out her heart from a satin lined coffin. Once again, the art direction marries both monochrome with the rich, dramatic red of Rose's jeweled dress.


Watch "Six Feet Under"

The viewer is also let in to possibly one of Rose's own personal influences. The last few lines pay homage to The Offspring's 'Gone Away'.  "..and it feels like Heaven's so far away."

It definitely leaves us anxiously waiting for the next chapter in this music video trilogy.

It's been a pleasant journey getting to know all about Rose's career. It's hard to deny that here is someone that can be an incredible role model to both young women and men, in fact women and men of all ages. Despite her already extensive list of achievements, she hasn't let it gone to her head. With the skill of story telling like fellow Canadian Alanis Morrisette, paired with the emotion provoking vocals like Norah Jones, Rose may draw from influences, but she's truly one of a kind with an incredible talent that we all are blessed to be able to witness via many multimedia channels.

She's proud of what she's done, where she's from and has some clear ideas of where she wants to go and what next to accomplish. She possesses a strong identity and is not afraid to put herself out there to do what she feels is the best for both her personal and public life. 

I wish to thank Rose for her participation in this interview. It has definitely been an honour. I wish her nothing but all the success in her future endeavors.
​
Special thanks to Riley Allen, from HER Records for organizing this interview and for providing all photographs from Mystery Man Photography, that have been used in this writeup.

​To Pre-Order 'Onto the Floor' and purchase other keepsakes:  HERE

To find out where Rose and The Truth Untold are performing next:  HERE

​To keep up to date on Rose and The Truth Untold, be sure to follow her on social media and sign up for her newsletter on her website.

Official Rose Cora Perry Website
Official Facebook
​Official Twitter
Official YouTube Channel

Also On KaoticNotes.com 

BigMotorGasoline - Fuel To Burn- Album review

Courtesy of BMG

1. Change Your Mind
2. BYOT (Bring Your Own Truck)
3. Lately
4. Gwb
5.Dirty Politician
6. Borderline
7. Put It On Me
8. Vodka
9. Rain
10. Peace Of Mind
11. I Don't Care
​
©2016-BigMotorGasoline
Label: MondoTunes
Recorded at: SlyFi Chapel - Trenton, ON
​Released: June 2016


It's always a pleasant surprise when new music lands in your hands, and despite slight trepidation, you give it a listen, then two, then three, and ultimately you realize it's an incredible ensemble of songs, and soon becomes a favorite in your collection.

'Fuel To Burn', the debut album by Marmora's BigMotorGasoline (BMG), is exactly that. I was fortunate to receive a download of the album, and it has since become one of my favorites. So who are BigMotorGasoline?​

Dave, Brandon, John, Roger. Photo courtesy of BMG

Formed in the Fall of 2014 in a small town North of Belleville, Ontario, BigMotorGasoline consists of:

Dave Haywood (drums),
Brandon Tapper (bass/vocals),
John Freitas (vocals/guitar), and
Roger Dafoe (lead guitars).

Since then, BMG has written and recorded their debut album and with the convenience of self promotion via the internet, they have utilized this tool and numerous online radio stations are now spinning their tunes.

The album kicks off with an in-your-face 'Change Your Mind'. It is a combination of strong vocals, guitars, bass and drums that sets the tone of the album. From this very first song, it's clear they mean business. These guys love to rock and it's a perfect example to lure the listener into their album and keep them there.

​Their first single 'Vodka' has been played as locally as Hamilton, Kingston, Montreal and as far as Australia and the United Kingdom, not to mention various cities throughout the United States.

Watch Video: Vodka

It's definitely a shot (pun intended) of great rock and roll. John's vocals are clear and straightforward, while the instruments are all complimentary to each other, including the backing vocals. 

I can see how this track would garner some airplay and great praise from Kingston's Q108 and Peterborough's The Wolf 101.5.
It makes you wonder why you are not hearing this track or any of their others more on mainstream radio, where they do belong.

The first time I listened to the songs, I instantly heard a comparison to fellow Canadian rockers Monster Truck as well as Texas rocker Tyler Bryant .  The guitar driven rock with a touch of country is evident in such tracks as 'BYOT', 'Lately' and 'Put It On Me'.  They are great rock and roll songs that I couldn't imagine people not getting up to dance to at their live shows.

'Fuel To Burn' is a fast moving CD. Southern rock feel, good time rock and roll, yet it does have the element of acoustic rock as well with personal favorites 'Peace of Mind' and 'Borderline'.

The tracks hold up remarkably well on their own, as well as a collective group. I could see these tunes getting air play alongside Glorious Sons, One Bad Son, The Black Crowes and many others who are in that genre of music.

If there was any confusion that they might be a country rock band, 'Dirty Politician' melts your face off and proves that these guys do know how to rock.  

​The guitar comes in quick and heavy, setting the mood for the rest of the song.

Personally, the track's guitar riff is reminiscent of Lenny Kravitz's 'Always on The Run'.

Watch Video: Dirty Politician

Ironically, intentional or not, it is followed by 'GWB', a nineteen second snippet of the former US President George W. Bush speaking.

Majority of the songs are radio friendly, but I think the real place these songs would shine are on the stage. 'Rain', for example, I could see being one of those songs that crowds would be asking for at live performances. It's a fantastic song and showcases how this quartet can work together and put out something simply enjoyable to listen to.

Closing out the album, much like how they opened, is 'I Don't Care'. It's another in your face rock song. Once you have reached this track you look back with fondness and realize that you just listened to something brilliant and find yourself hitting repeat for an encore.

Photo courtesy of BMG

BigMotorGasoline has successfully crossed genres with 'Fuel To Burn'. They have incorporated everything from heavy rock, country rock, acoustic and released it as a CD that everyone should have in their collection. It's a melting pot of all things that radio stations need these days.
​
This relatively new band may have a way to go, but they are unequivocally on the right track. By playing some shows already, they have been building their fan base. 

I have to say 'Fuel To Burn' is a great album. On a larger scale, it has something for everyone and I highly recommend any music lover to check it out. You won't be disappointed.

Special thanks to Stuart Roberts for the information, photos and links. Stay tuned to an official website, but for now you can learn more about BigMotorGasoline, and where they're playing, more photos and info on their:
​Official Facebook Page
Check them out on their:
Official Reverbnation Profile
Videos found at:
Official YouTube Channel

You can purchase 'Fuel To Burn' starting August 13, 2016 at:
BMG on Amazon

Also Published at Kaoticnotes