on 2012-06-16 jdrcore67 Said:

the vocals are a little boring and lacking creativity. The music isn't bad but isn't great either.
Rating: 4/10

Review:

on 2012-06-11 Michael_Morrison Said:

Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the typical attributes and skill sets like raw talent, amazing songs, nice vocals, or even a very marketable look, sound and image. There's something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever "it" is - they all seem to have "it".

Today I listened to the latest EP from their full length release entitled "Upsidedown" (2011). Farehaven is a band from Cincinnati, OH. Venturing to their website and reading their bio I get the impression this is one 3 piece that is determined and extremely passionate about their songwriting craft. From start to finish these 6 songs (showcased on their latest CD) (Upsidedown) is a very invigorating musical statement. It has a very melodic, catchy, marketable hard rock feel to it but dabbles in Alternative Rock and Hard Rock. Any fans of any of these musical styles will enjoy this latest release from Farehaven. It's clearly marketed for those who like a male singer front with a rock mystique of say a Nikelback, The Verve Pipe, Our Lady Peace and Tonic. I get the impression vocalist David Sizemore is rolling with what he knows as a performer within these songs. In other words he hits the mark remarkably well by just by being himself vocally. He's not to bad of a guitarist eier. Kudos also goes out to the timekeeping theatrics from drummer Dan Durrant. Favorite tracks include (Nobody Knows) and (Caught in your Trap). All songs strike the perfect balance between rock, alternative rock and even singer/songwriter hard pop. The songwriting is impressive and digs a bit deeper than the next independent artist. Within each one of these songs Farehaven finds their soul and delivers musical mojo with much in the way of passion and compelling lyrical content. All the playing is spot on and just makes the whole EP even more enjoyable. The overall vibe of the production is very upbeat and positive. EP has Gold Standard production quality.

In close this EP from Farehaven is a professional grade release. These 6 songs had me eager and curious to hear the full length. With that said looks like this EP did exactly what it was designed to do. In close I'm not so sure what "it" but Farehaven has whatever "it" may be.

Michael Morrison
(UK) Scotland
Rating: 7/10