Can’t Quit Nominated for “Album of the Year” at IMD
Boston’s own My Silent Bravery (fronted by Matthew Wade) releases this latest CD entitled Can’t Quit in 2011. Wade is the premier singer/songwriter featured on this release and I might add he is backed by an impressive line up of session musicians.
The CD quickly takes flight with “Four Years” a dynamic guitar driven groove that serves up steady rock rhythm against catchy vocal melodies and hooky chorus from Wade. Track 2 is hands down my personal favorite “All Right” shifts gears with its smooth flowing beat, though provoking lyrical content and a grand slam of a chorus. Track 2 evolves into a solid rock groove with clever lyrical content and impressive vocal passion – all in all an amazing piece. Track 3 “Can’t Quit” (Acoustic versions also available) is a hypnotic title track with driving rock rhythm, impressive musical ambience and heartfelt vocal delivery. As the CD slowly unfolds I can hear many musical influences reminiscent of classic Live, John Mayer and perhaps a splash of Jack Johnson. This CD makes a pretty solid first impression. Right from the start you will notice rich musical textures and ambience overflowing everywhere, full of warmth, variety and strong melodic structure. I would classify this music as catchy power pop, rock, with a slight aftertaste of alternative rock. The songs themselves are addictive and upbeat, complete with positive, carefree subject matter. The musicianship is pretty solid across the board. Make no bones about it Wade has good production instincts and knows how to bring the passion. Along the way you will notice lush layers of instrumentation layered everywhere. Besides the 4 piece standard you will also catch impressive things well placed Hammond Organ accents, Strings, Keyboard accents, solo guitar, impressive rhythm section and well placed vocal harmonies. Wade’s voice works well across the board as he fills the sonic space peacefully and unobtrusively. I might add Wade takes many vocal risks indicating to me a strong and confident vocal ability. I also noticed a few amazing falsetto sprinkles here and there. All songs are short and sweet musical experiences. From heartfelt “Burn Out” (2 versions) to grooving “To Give” (featuring Matisyahu) to dynamic “Ms. Definite Maybe” and thought provoking “Last On Left” this CD has something for just about everyone. The CD ends with Track 10 “Today is Tomorrow’s Yesterday” the perfect finale statement for a CD of this caliber.
It’s fair to say this is one of the brightest, in your face mixes I have ever come across. These types of mixes are becoming more and more popular these days and are really designed to maximize radio marketability – but there are cons when taking this approach. As a result the CD lacks what I call flow and ebb factor and lacks solid bottom end feel. Over time this CD really wears on the ears and will strip your senses down to their core – like a commercial. CD contains 10 tracks but for the record 2 have acoustic versions available making for an 8 track catalogue. Perhaps 2 or 3 more songs are needed to really seal the deal for a grand slam full length release.
Can’t Quit by My Silent Bravery is an impressive musical production from start to finish. The music is consistent; the messages are upbeat, carefree and sung from a positive perspective. It’s strong suit – the wide musical variety and overall vocal passion from Wade. He possesses enough musical talent and songwriting prowess to be extremely dangerous. The musicianship is first rate. Once again the vocals, vocal harmonies and melodic accents are brilliantly placed and extremely well crafted. The messages are packed to the hilt with rich conventional wisdom offering hope and compassion. As a listener I was entertained the entire time. This CD takes us in a radically new direction when compared to the previous MSB release. However “Can’t Quit” above all demonstrates powerful resolve that cannot be overstated. “Can’t Quit” will not only make your day a brighter place, but will inspire you in the process.
Artist: My Silent Bravery
Album: Can’t Quit
Label: Independent Artist
Website: www.mysilentbravery.com
Genre: Power Pop, Alternative Rock
Sounds Like: Live, Jack Johnson, John Mayer
Technical Grade: 9/10
Production/Musicianship Grade: 8/10
Commercial Value: 8/10
Overall Talent Level: 8/10
Songwriting Skills: 8/10
Performance Skill: 9/10
Best Songs: Can’t Quit, To Give, Last One Left
Weakness: Overbearing mix, Short Sided CD
Read the full article here.