On the surface, Beneath may seem like just another
band in the post-teenage wasteland that is alternative rock. However, when you look deeper, you will find something unique: a group of skilled musicians schooled in both vintage power-pop songcraft and modern rock intensity.
This local quintet is powered by smooth vocalist Scott McKee and lead axeman Josh Inman. Josh is complemented nicely by a second guitarist, Chad Lawrence. Rounding out the lineup are inventive, groove-oriented bassist Jason Pate and immensely talented drummer Kent Michael. Together, these five guys produce songs that build slowly and then explode out of the speakers, a tornadic wall of sound and melody. Fans of the 90's band Hum may seem some resemblance in Beneaths sound, as Josh was heavily influenced by Hum. Yet, as evidenced in Beneaths new 4-song demo, they are distinct from - and superior to - Hum and other inspirers.
The Beneath demo kicks off with Blue, a poppy alt-metal tune that is at once both laconic and expansive. It is somewhat reminiscent of Hums hit song Stars, particularly in the breakdowns. However, Blue is more of a power-pop song due to its soaring vocals and anthemic chorus (I want you to know, I still want you). This addictive tune, about still desiring a lover who has left, displays some monster riffage and killer drumming toward the end.
Next is Somebody Else, another potential anthem. This song has a very laidback feel, yet is complex because of the start-stop dynamics and brilliant march-style drumming. The riffs and chorus are as infectious as a cold, while the lyrics are clever and more complicated than they appear. What seems to be a song about somebody else who has changed to gain a little popularity, is actually the lyricist criticizing himself. He has changed so much that he has almost literally become two different people. It reminds me of the phrase: I have seen my enemy, and it is myself.
Track 3 a catchy, low-key groove rocker called Shiver. The bassline is hypnotic and the drumming fits perfectly, but again it is the hook (is this the end, or where the end begins?) that reels you in. The only downside to this song is some out-of-left field emo screaming of the word shiver.
Beneath have saved the best for last, as the demo closes out with the incessantly catchy Yellowleaf Road. Like the previous songs, this one starts out in mellow fashion, then swells into a compelling, lighters-in-the-air anthem. The lyrics deal with frustration and the need to return home back to Yellowleaf Road (which is a real location, according to Josh). As powerful as these lyrics are, it is the incredibly emotive singing and subtle riffing that will resonate in your soul long after the song is over. I havent reviewed a song
this strong since Year And A Days The Unknown, which was part of my first Buzz review (over a year ago).
There are various ways of getting to know the music of Beneath. Their entire demo can be heard at www.myspace.com/beneathband. They are preparing to do a show at the prestigious Workplay, a place they have played several times, once as a headliner. They also play at various other Birmingham venues, and plans are in the works for Beneath to take the Orlando music scene by storm. So check out this local band while you can, because I have a feeling Beneaths going to rise above them all.
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McGreetings Beneath , Cheers for being our friend on myspace , Rock on and please Keep in touch as we value your friendship and support very much! All the very best to you, from McDave and the boys of Pegasus in Bonnie Scotland.
Hey guys!! I love yalls music..mrs. mckee made me a copy about 2 years back & I fell in love with yalls sound! Keep up the good work!! Good songwriting & music is hard to find these days! You guys really give me a new found appreciation for music! thanks
Toshia Nicole
What's up guys? Had a great time in Tampa with you . It was great to finally meet up. Strange we had to go all the way to Tampa to do it when you guys are from "the Ham", lol.
Hey Kent thanks for thinking of us for the show. Scott and Chad, we really appreciate the hospitality you guys shared with us and thanks for lettings take over the PS2. You guys are alot of fun and know how to rock a crowd.
Loving the 50c..., holla at ya boys.
hey just wanted to say that you guys were awesome at the judas priest concert. i dunno if you remember me but it was my birthday & you guys signed my cd. oh well, thanks so much. ya'll rock *
![Man and Machines[Working on new material]](http://c4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/4/s_bfdec1da3c374f319672ad127920ecbb.jpg)
