Post by jptheprofessor on Nov 21, 2005 0:40:38 GMT -5
THIRD STANDARD – KARMA CLEAN (no label) The second album from western Pennsylvania-based quartet Third Standard, Karma Clean, offers a detailed examination of the emotional fallout from a relationship gone sour. Through the album’s ten songs, singer/rhythm guitarist/lyricist Tyson Ruhlman explores different emotions, realizations, questions and resentments associated with bailing out of a hopeless situation. The album begins with the hard-driving and aggressive opener “Walkin’ On,” and the initial decision to exit the situation. “I” second-guesses indecision at not ending things sooner, riding atop a powerful, forceful melody. Other songs such as “Drowning,” “Bringing You Down,” “Blue,” “This Time” and “What Do You Want (From Me),” deal with varying degrees of anger, resentment, dejection and soul searching. The title track, “Karma Clean,” is about losing the race with one’s conscience and ultimately facing the truth. The album finishes with “Shine On,” and the determination to move on and leave the situation and past mistakes behind. Ruhlman sells his lyrics with a gritty, emotional vocal delivery; upping the ante on his overall fire, angst and intensity. New drummer Steve Holtz brings a harder, more aggressive drumming style; coupled with tighter and leaner performances from guitarist Joe Scott and bassist Andy Heinze, the results are a more urgent, bare bones brand of melody-geared hard rock. Produced by the band and Bill Filer, and engineered and mastered by Filer at his Audible Images Recording facility in Port Matilda, Karma Clean sounds sharper and edgier than the group’s 2003 Rabbit Run debut; without sacrificing any of the group’s sense of melody or ear candy catchiness. Ultimately, Third Standard raises their standard on Karma Clean; a superior, more consistent sophomore effort that further establishes this group’s foundation in edgy, fundamental, classic-rooted rock. (The album can be purchased at the group’s shows or through their website, www.thirdstandard.com.)