Play 90 second soundbite of 'startthecar' @ 'CD quality'
'As Easy As That' has a raw feel to it and should give a good indication of how Bluestack sound in the live scenario. Listening, I can hear that these guys, Brian May (vocals), Eckers Screen (bass & vocals), Russ Merrick (drums & percussion) and Gal Oswell (guitar & vocals) are accomplished musicians that play together with tightness and understanding. My personnel feeling is that the overall feel is just a little lightweight. That's down to production rather than musicianship; I think they've tried to keep it honest but actually that honesty has detracted somewhat from the end result. However, what the CD lacks in energy it makes up for in the way the guys interact instrumentally. Certainly, 'As Easy As That' will get them gigs and their followers will love to take a copy home with them as a memento.
The impression I'm left with after hearing 'As Easy As That' by Bluestack is that this, essentially blues covers, outfit play controlled rockin' blues; they don't take things to extremes, they don't attempt to disguise their music with the massive 'wall of sound' approach - they're just good time, honest guys who want to share their music with whoever will listen. Now, aint that what it's about really?
I feel I should just mention guest Hammond & keyboard player, Mark Bettis; he puts in some great work on several tracks and helps to add some of those extra dynamics that Bluestack often lack here.
So, as a commercial venture, 'As Easy As That' lacks the real dynamics that would make it special but, as a promotional aid and a lasting memento of their live work it'll do quite nicely. Me, I'd like to hear what Bluestack could sound like with a true engineers mix and a bigger production. The boys can play!
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