Cannons and Kisses
2009.03.17
Baltimore's Elder Statesmen shoot into the broadcast with their latest studio release, Hail Cannon. It's refreshing to hear their intricate indie rock rise above the din of an alternative music scene which seems to pump out one emo-punk band after another. Their music relies less on power-chord-laden odes to teen angst and more on creating colorful layers of sound that would turn Robert Smith of the Cure from his normal shade of whitish-grey to an enviously brilliant green--pretty impressive for a three-piece. This album contains something for everyone--groovy Phish-like guitar phrases to complex Rush-like rhythms to jazz-influenced bass lines all tucked inside a hip indie rock wrapper.
LA-based alt-country/pop artist Sharif joins the broadcast with selections from his 3rd CD release Kisses and Lies. Strong melodies, solid instrumentation, thoughtful lyrics and commanding vocals all contribute to a memorable musical offering.
