Post by jptheprofessor on Mar 3, 2008 17:24:25 GMT -5
RISE PHOENIX RISE – THE LAND OF OOHS AND AHHS (Solution6 Records) Rise Phoenix Rise was formed by drummer Rob Hampton in late 2006 after he departed his longtime previous band, the Poptart Monkeys. Rob recruited his former Teacher’s Pet bandmate, Ronnie Williams, to play bass; and the addition of three Tennessee musicians – singer Gibson and guitarists Chris Bishop and Jarrod Griffith – completed the line-up. Rise Phoenix Rise’s debut CD, The Land of Oohs and Aahs, introduces the group’s lively brand of punk-infused modern pop/rock. The prominent flavor of the album is sharp, guitar-driven, hook-heavy rock; with hard-hitting beats and catchy chorus harmonies. Rise Phoenix Rise sets the tone with the album-opening reworking of a tune Hampton imported from his previous band, “She Likes Girls;” and keeps the vibe lively with the equally punchy rockers “Boxing Josh” and the first radio single “Walk Away.” The group displays more of a pop/punk vigor on “My Song,” “Kenny Says ‘Ho’” and “Mr. Cream Jeans;” as well as a tender side on the disc-closing ballad “Find.” Perhaps the centerpiece of the album, though, is the dynamic and well-crafted “Dante Maria,” which develops from a delicate beginning into an impassioned, oceanic rocker. The performances are invigorating and powerful; packing ample guitar crunch and rhythmic thunder. Gibson shows a clear and expressive singing voice, often backed by strong two- and three-part harmonies. The group and Joe “Wiggy” Wiglesky do a good job on production, giving the rockers sharpness and edge, while giving texture and depth to the more delicate and tranquil moments. The Land of Oohs and Aahs is a strong opening chapter from Rise Phoenix Rise that introduces their knack for pop songcraft and the hard-rocking firepower to drive it home. (The CD can be obtained through Rise Phoenix Rise’s website, www.risephoenixrise.com.)