Post by jptheprofessor on Sept 29, 2005 9:35:32 GMT -5
NITEKAST – 13TH OF FRIDAY (no label) Cherry Tree-based rock band Nitekast first formed as a five-piece in 1999, and have undergone various changes to arrive at their present power-trio roster of singer/guitarist Brandon Scalese, bassist Josh Oaks and drummer Josh Boring. On the group’s latest recording, 13th Of Friday, Nitekast demonstrates their brand of raw, garage-flavored modern rock over eight tracks, including six original songs and two remakes. The group mixes up the flavors between punk driven rockers like “You” and “Blues Couch,” the catchy punk-pop opener "Humidity," the sullen and more reflective "Happiness Pills," and two ballads, "All Alone" and "False Window." Nitekast also offers renditions of two popular hits from the 1980's: an effective and edgy update of INXS' "Worlds Collide," and a workmanlike treatment of Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf." Nitekast instrumentally sounds on target for the most part, and their performances are enthusiastic. Vocally, Brandon does a satisfactory job as frontman; a little bit more confidence and soulfulness should improve his game. Recorded by Dave Villani at Data Music Services in Altoona, 13th Of Friday sounds solid and crisp, with Dave's full studio treatment adding body to Nitekast's overall sound; his keyboard underscore especially adds depth and fullness to "All Alone." While the overall consistency of Nitekast's performance and presentation could be tighter, 13th Of Friday is ultimately an encouraging effort from a young band getting their game feet underneath them. This album succeeds in defining Nitekast's musical world, and establishes a basic foundation for the group to grow and expand from. (Can be obtained at the group's shows, or by visiting the website www.nitekast.com.)