5-song EP
Over Under Records
Numira are one of the best unsigned bands currently on the LA scene. This power-trio write exceptional tunes and have loads of talent to back them. Produced by Christian Nesmith (a relative of Michael?), these 5 tunes sound far better than most the nu-metal crap released on the major labels these days. The tunes display a classic hard-rock feel with a modern rock edge, without sounding sappy, dreary or grungy. Incredible vocal harmonies are displayed throughout the disc, courtesy of brothers John (vox/guit) and Tim Stack (drums/vox), sounding similar to King's X at times, yet far less lifeless. John also sounds like Chris Cornell at times, yet still has his own style - he is a truly gifted vocalist! The Stack brothers, along with bassist Jeff Walendy, are well-seasoned musicians, and have acquired a marketable sound all their own. My favorite tracks are the opener "Indio" and "Fall Apart Together." In fact, all five tracks are equally impressive! This band is destined to become huge! For more info, check out their website: www.Numira.net. BN
LOADED
Dark Days
Pimp Records (Locomotive - Europe)
Loaded features former Guns & Roses bassist (now vocalist) Duff McKagan, who really delivers the goods on this 12-song powerhouse punk/metal debut. The first couple tracks are simple, yet effective, power-chord rock tunes reminiscent of classic 60s/70s icons MC5, The Stooges, Ramones, etc. "Seattlehead" rocks hard, paying homage to Duff's new hometown while depicting LA's not-so-glamorous music scene. "Then and Now" is my favorite track. A powerful, incredibly hooky, rock anthem that especially kicks ass live! I really hoped to hear more songs in this vein but, sadly, the songs that follow veer into a more experimental, less energetic, direction. Not that it's necessarily bad, but it seems obvious to me that high-power punk/metal anthems is what this band does best. The third track, "Wrap My Arms," is a strong cut, and probably the most radio-friendly, with a ultra-catchy guitar hook and chorus. And with its hard-rockin' melody, I can easily see this song breaking he US radio charts in the same fashion as Three Doors Down's "Superman" song. Quite honestly, the remainder of the album bored the hell out of me. That dreary Seattle post-grunge alternative-crap may sound enlightening to the "coffeehouse" crowd, but it does absolutely nothing for me. It's unfortunate Loaded deliver a half-ass record, especially considering how much their live show kicked my ass. The band shows a great deal of potential and talent, particularly drummer Geoff Reading, and Duff's not a bad singer at all! It'll be interesting to see where the future lies for this band, seeing that Duff has rejoined ex-G&R bandmates Slash, Izzy and Matt Sorum. I had the privilege of seeing that lineup live (with the singer from Stargun) jamming out a few G&R classics, and they honestly sounded better that G&R had sounded in years. If they can pull it off, this will be one reunion worth waiting for. BN
Shockwaves CD REVIEWS ISSUE 8 Page 15