Post by jptheprofessor on Aug 13, 2007 0:39:49 GMT -5
LOWJACK – LOWJACK (no label) State College’s Lowjack formed a year ago from the ashes of just-retired Happy Valley favorites Katsu. Two Katsu mainstays; singer, songwriter and acoustic guitarist Dennis Fallon and bassist Frank Yarnal; teamed with former Voodoo Bullet guitarist Burk, keyboard player Jeremiah Reyes and drummer Jonathan Hoffman, and Lowjack was born. On their official self-titled debut EP (after a hastily-recorded, limited edition demo issued last fall), Lowjack introduces a straight-ahead, driving rock’n’roll sound; defined by simple, catchy melodies and relatable, easy-to-digest lyrics about life, love and heartache in blue-collar America. A majority of the disc’s six tracks (plus bonus track) concern boys, girls, and relationships; on the opening romp “Runaway,” Dennis offers advice and an alternative for escaping an abusive relationship. “Kiss Her” addresses the turning point where boy either goes for girl or surrenders to fears of the consequences; and “Baby Run to Me” diagrams a recurring messy relationship. On “Vacation From Everyone,” Dennis seems to make a lyrical break from his Katsu past. The CD’s bonus track, “Please Don’t Start,” which appeared on the group’s initial demo, was featured on the CW television show Veronica Mars. Lowjack gets to the point quickly on each song with hard-nosed, driving rhythms, with Jeremiah’s keyboard fills adding flavor, shape and texture. Dennis sells his lyrics with a hearty, robust howl, a gift of gab and a touch of cynical wit. His production keeps things simple and to the point, with bare bones arrangements and a raw, in-your-face edge. The result is a crisp, catchy and hard-rocking calling card that introduces Lowjack as a fresh departure from Katsu’s shadow. Lowjack successfully defines this group’s direction and drive, and again establishes Dennis Fallon’s knack for clever songcraft. (The disc can be obtained at shows or through the group’s website, www.lowjackmusic.com).