Billboard sounded the alarm and it is proving true that the British Invasion is on again with a vengence. Coldplay has refocused the attention with its epic new release and fans of said band would do well to pay attention to Embrace’s new effort ” Out of Nothing.” From start to finish an excellent collection of melodic rock songs layered with atmospheric guitar and beautiful vocals. Brothers Danny and Richard McNamera tip thier hat to Oasis and Coldplay and perhaps dip into the archive of influences like Roxy Music. From the stage at The Club House, lead vocalist Danny Mc tells the story about how the Chris Martin song “Gravity” came about when offered by the Coldplay singer/songwriter. Supported by the urging of Gweneth Paltrow, the band went back into the studio to add the song after having already completed the albums recording.
With each listening one can add favorite songs to the list but lyrically the first one to grab me was “Keeping” about a lost love, “because there’s no way back that I could face and no one’s come to take your place.” The song “Near Life” exhibits the bands instrumental expertise particularly of guitarist Richard McNamara, who is an excellent vocalist in his own right. The live set also borrowed from earlier works. Guitarist Richard stealing the show with a heavy Hendrix like intro. The album only gives a taste of what Embrace has to offer as they are a great live band. Preconceived notions of British “snobbery” exhibited by some past UK acts are cast away quickly with vocalist Danny frequently encouraging the audience to be involved. ” I hear American’s don’t like to jump up and down.” he said. A few fans accepted the challenge and complied while being exhorted by McNamara. The band will be continuing the tour then returning to the US again in July and September. Some shows being part of a VH-1 tour. So, those who missed out will have a chance to see them again.
Melodic vocals excelled with Columbia artist and fellow British act :(Long-View). Lead vocalist Rob McVey’s range was almost limitless. Again, supported by soaring guitar parts. The new cd “Mercury” is another offering of hit songs waiting to happen. Like “I Would” about realizing he was losing his love after its too late. Memorable during the live set was ” Further.” Embrace has some strong competition as the bands cd is another strong compilation from start to finish.
Representing the US was San Diego’s Augustana. Another nice surprise for the night. I came early and met these lads who were very personable. Recently signed to Epic I checked out the ep “You’ll Disappear” and immediately was grabbed by the vocals of Danny Layus. Having the same ability as Chris Martin to turn it up a higher notch just at the right time. The songs were catchy and instrumentation solid.All three songs are possible radio hits. I can see the song “Boston” being mouthed by a large adoring, auditorium size crowd of teenaged girls. During the sound check I immediately noticed the vintage axes from the 60’s played by both guitarist. During the live set Danny switched back and forth from guitar to keyboards. I noticed that he turned up the intensity while on the keys. The full length record will be released nationally in October with possible earlier availability at shows or via the internet. The band recently toured with the Stereophonics. They will remain quite busy on the road for the weeks and months ahead. All three bands had very accomidating tour managers and the venue’s promoter was courteous to make for a very successful show and review.
As I headed down Mills Avenue for my coffee fix I saw quite a crowd and told myself what a show they had missed, another one where they will be lamenting ” I should have been there.” All three bands are poised for the next level and beyond.
