Review:

on 2012-09-16 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 like raw talent, amazing songs, nice voice, or even a very marketable look, sound & 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 CD from New Jerseys own The Wandering Bards who just released their third release to day entitled appropriately enough Party Hat in 2012. Venturing to their website I get the impression these guys are extremely determined and passionate about the songwriting craft and being a hot running touring band. From start to finish this EP from The Wandering Bards delivers the goods and is a very entertaining musical experience overall. It has a very entertaining, slamming Funk, Blues-Rock quality to it, and even dabbles in R&B and classic Jazz-Folk-Pop. It also reminds me of Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Widespread Panic and Sister Hazel. Any fans of any of these musical styles or bands will enjoy this latest release from The Wandering bards. It's clearly marketed for those who like a high octane vocal front, and playing hat is hot to the touch. I get the impression These boys are letting it all hang out via this compelling 4 track line up. In other words they hits the mark remarkably well by just by being who they are musically. Favorite tracks include (Party Hat) and (I Believe in Elvis). All songs strike the perfect balance between Rock, Blues and classic Americana Folk. The songwriting is impressive and digs a bit deeper than the next independent artist. Within each one of these pieces Allen and company bare their soul and delivers what I would call pure musical mojo. It offers much in the way of passion and compelling-thought provoking lyrical content. The playing from the band is spot on and just makes the whole EP even more enjoyable. The overall vibe of the production is very uplifting and cheerful.

As far as sound quality goes the music is very, very loud and bright sounding. I noticed I kept reaching for the volume knob as I listened to it. Not sure why this is - all I can say is the CD sounded very overbearing on my high end stereo system and when I reduced the High Gain, reduced my Treble and maxed out the Bass it helped allot.

I see The Wandering Bards as a diamond in the rough, with an amazing amount of potential. As time goes by he will no doubt hear more from them. They are a lucrative record contract waiting to happen. I also would be surprised to hear their music on Satellite Radio someday or even in a film or TV Show. In close most famous artists out there have "it" I'm not so sure what it but The Wandering Bards have whatever "it" is.

Michael Morrison
West Lothian, Scotland (UK)
Rating: 8/10