This is an open forum for staff members, contributers, and fans alike to submit their reviews on the latest music releases and concerts. In an industry that is drowning with overprocessed, grossly overrated, unoriginal crap these days, this is our chance to allow the real stars to shine, if only on our humble, little stage; and expose you to some of our favorite talents.
Reviews are given 1 - 5 stars.
1.Poison Kiss
2.Back Where We Belong
3.Pictures of You
4.Stay Beautiful
5.This Is The Sound
6.One Trust
7.Return To Me
8.Good Love
9.If I Talk To God
10.Push Me Away
11. In Your Arms
12.Incomplete
By now, you have probably had these lyrics stuck on repeat in your head. But do you know who sings it? If you don’t, you soon will. These lyrics are sung by a Connecticut based band that met in high school, The Last Goodnight. The band is lead by frontman and piano player, Kurtis John. Lead guitar is headed up by Mike Nadeau. On the keys, piano and also on vocals is Ely Rise. Leif Christensen plays bass, Also on keys, guitar and vocal is Anton Yurack. Rounding out the band is Larone “Skeeter” McMillan on drums.
Their Virgin label release Poison Kiss is now available to the masses. When I first heard the album’s name, I immediately pictured big hair, lots of Aqua Net, makeup, spandex and three foot high boots. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I played track one. If I had to compare their sound to anyone, I’d say some of the songs have a Maroon 5 vibe like on their latest cd. At other times, they remind me of Blue October. The album is a balance of guitar filled songs and piano driven songs.
The cd starts off with a few upbeat songs before giving way to slower songs. As I continued to listen, the more I really liked the cd. I think most everyone can relate to at least one song, if not all of them. This cd could easily be the soundtrack to anyone’s life. The cd begins with the title track where John breaks off his bad relationship. Then each song is like a back and forth of where the relationship and it’s aftermath goes. He misses her, remembers her ("Don’t stop, don’t change, stay beautiful"), falling in love with her again, breaking trust, pushing love away and begging her to come back.
Finally, the relationship ends with “Incomplete”. My favorite lyrics are:
This song completes the journey that we have been on with this couple.
I don’t want to say it’s a concept album, but the songs easily flow and follow each other into a twelve song story that could be anyone’s story. I highly recommend adding this cd to your collection. The cd gets better with each listen. Spread the word and be prepared to keep hearing from these guys.
Standout tracks: “Poison Kiss”, “This is the Sound”, “If I Talk To God”, “In Your Arms” and “Incomplete”
Reviewed by: Samantha Schipman | September 2007
