| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Track Structure | 8 |
| Interest | 9 |
| Melody | 9 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Lyrics | 8 |
| Enjoyment | 9 |
| Recording Quality | 9 |
| Commercial Appeal | 7 |
| Overall | 8.4 |
First off I must admit to being a fan of HoneyThick since they first appeared on the site. I've listened to this track a few times now and I'm trying to be as detached as possible and award points based on a system whereby 7.5 is what you would reasonably expect to hear on the radio. I have to say, I'm finding it difficult to rate this band lower or equal to radio quality because are simply that good. Then again, bear in mind I'm boased toward guitar driven music!
Let's look at the technical side of the recording first - it's extremely professional. Sounds like it has been mixed by a master engineer in a BIG recording studio.I never got to hear the first version of this track which was apparently remixed following some constructive comments from members of this site. Every element of this mix is perfectly balanced. This band has a very unique sound, part due to the very unusual mix of live brass and low end rhythm guitars - but they also have a very cool sound. Kudos to the engineer for creating a sound that this band can call their own. All instruments site very well within the stereo field and don't compete for frequencies on any audible level (to my ailing ears anyway). My only constructive criticism, just a matter of personal taste, is that the guitars could be a little more ballsy - just a smidgen. Drumming and drum sound are excellent, brass dominates as it should for such an unusual crossover and the vocals are top drawer. A unique sounding vocalist is one of the key ingredients in any such band and I reckon HoneyThick have all bases covered.
As for the song itself, it doesn't follow the usual verse, chorus, verse chorus, solo break, verse, chorus format that dogs the rock/metal world. The track has a modern Tarantino vibe to it - like a retro band with modern treatment and a penchant for distorted metal guitars. I particularly liked the change at the mid point with these cool lyrics: "Brothers and sisters... rise up... join hands... join spirits... join consciousness! (couldn't make out this bit!), see through to your soul, transcend and be free". One tiny thing I noticed was the timing of the delay over "consciousness" - if you guys are still mixing , this could be tweaked manually as the syllables run into each other a little. Seriously, that's what I am reduced to when it comes to 'constructive criticism ' for this track. Have to say, I would not be surprised to hear these guys on the radio, on a movie soundtrack or backing up a big band - let alone playing at a large festival. Up beat cross over psycho funk rock at it's finest.
If you've never heard these guys then get the wax out of your ears and head on over to their page!
To listen to the track Click Here