Review:

on 2012-02-15 Michael_Morrison Said:

Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the typical attributes like raw talent, amazing songs, nice voice, or even a very marketable look, sound and image. There's something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever "it" is - they all seem to have "it".

Today I listened to the self titled EP from Walking Sideways, a band from Long Island, NY. Venturing to their website and reading the bio I get the impression this is one 4 piece that is determined and extremely passionate about the songwriting craft. From start to finish this CD from Walking Sideways is very invigorating overall. It has a very melodic, catchy, marketable pop rock feel to it but dabbles in Alternative Rock. Any fans of any of these musical styles will enjoy this latest release from Walking Sideways. It's clearly marketed for those who like a male singer front with a rock mystique of say a Nikelback, The Verve Pipe, Our Lady Peace and Tonic. I get the impression vocalist Erik Hagedorn is rolling with what he knows as a performer within these songs. In other words he hits the mark remarkably well by just by being himself vocally. Kudos also goes out to the solid timekeeping from drummer Chris Ciccone. Favorite tracks include (Innocent Mistake) and (Magellan). All songs strike the perfect balance between rock, alternative rock and even singer/songwriter pop. The songwriting is impressive and digs a bit deeper than the next independent artist. Within each one of these songs Walking Sideways finds their soul and delivers musical mojo with much in the way of passion and compelling lyrical content. All the playing is spot on and just makes the whole CD even more enjoyable. The overall vibe of the production is very upbeat and positive. EP has Gold Standard production quality.

It's probably fitting to release at least 4 or 5 song EP's nowadays. 3 song EP's are a bit unorthodox. When the EP was over it felt incomplete to me. Just when I was getting into the grooves it was over and it had me yearning for at least 2 more songs.

In close this EP from Walking Sideways is a professional grade release. It is a bit short but that doesn't mean it doesn't make its point. I am very eager to hear more material soon, hopefully this Summer. Once again I'm not so sure what "it" but Walking Sideways has whatever "it" may be.

Michael Morrison
Edited by Cyrus Rhodes
Rating: 7/10