Martha's Wake
Romans
Reviewed by Camille Bresie
This three females/three males band has a unique sound. One term used to describe their unusual sound appears in their promo: "90's psychedelia." What's great about this band is not only the concept of a three females/three males combo, but rather the great musical diversity and emotion represented on this six-song effort. All the songs are very emotional, moody, and enrapturing. Each song not only has a message, but at least one emotion to accompany that message. There are rock-based songs as well as songs like "Scarlet Letter," with gritty rock guitar parts accompanied by a creamy alternative sound. "Lament of Planet Earth" is quite catchy in an up-beat yet eerily haunting way. With such emotion, grooves and subtle flair, I would like to hear a better mix on these songs. Songs like "Righteous Man" and "Cafe Moderato" would benefit from a more subtle and fluent BGV mix. And, although "Just Like Me" has great emotion and transitions between the different moods, the drums are too high and tend to consume the song. This band provides powerful, and sometimes eery songs presented in a smooth and unobtrusive way. To give them a try, write: PO Box 101766, Denver CO 80250.