Post by jptheprofessor on Feb 20, 2006 11:36:24 GMT -5
FAYTED - THE AFTERMATH (no label) Former members of the bands State Of Mind and Borderline, Inc. converged to form Fayted two years ago. On their debut album, The Aftermath, the Saxton-based quintet introduces listeners to their brand of melody-based, hard-hitting rock'n'roll. Fayted's sound borrows both from classic blues-rock and 90's grunge-rock influences; blending the strut and swagger of Aerosmith and the Black Crowes with the gruffer dynamics of Pearl Jam and Seven Mary Three. Fayted flaunts their knack for melody and muscle over The Aftermath's eleven tracks; combining both on midtempo exercises such as the tropical-themed "Margaritaville," "Midnight Drive," the anti-drug exposé "Crystal Creature" and the album closer "There It Goes." The group also shows a talent for anthemic-flavored numbers with the optimistic album opener "Keep Smilin'" and the anti-alcoholism public service announcement "Too Late." The album also features a fast-firing rocker in "Mama Said," the bluesy shuffle "Blame Yourself," two slower numbers in "Mystery Man" and the Pearl Jam-informed "Beaches," and a Clarks-flavored acoustic-geared song in "Search In The Dark." Fayted's performances are strong throughout the album. Rhythm guitarist Ron Horton, bassist Larry Bishop and drummer Zac Grace generate the crunchy and powerful backdrop; serving as the foundation for Kenton Sitch's busy and varied lead guitar work and Josh Lockard's gruff-edged vocals. Their playing is enthusiastic, and their gang shouts and vocal harmonies are on target much more often than not. The production on The Aftermath gives Fayted's sound weight and fullness, and all of the group's components sound clear and balanced. The Aftermath is a strong first chapter for Fayted; a fun, straight-ahead, hard-nosed rock'n'roll album. (Can be obtained at shows or through the group's website, www.fayted.com.)