CD Review: Revery - Avarice & Absolution

After listening to this album, one thing becomes abundantly clear, Revery rocks! Their sound is not the most original I have heard, it is not the most technically precise I have heard, nor is it the best rock album I have heard. However, they play to their strengths, which is turning up the volume and playing loud rock music that is tight, catchy, and will suck you in.

Revery is not alternative, emo, nu-, -core, or any other sub category that people seem so fond of assigning these days. Despite not fitting into any of those categories, their sound is one that could be welcomed by people across genres. They fit into the larger and looser category of "hard rock". That is all this Virginia Beach band needs.

Avarice & Absolution seethes with a strong undercurrent of energy, and it is addictive. As soon as that first song hits, you will find your head rocking and your foot tapping. You may even start to wonder how they must be live. This recording captures raw rock energy in a well produced package unlike some other recent albums I have listened to. Occasionally it sounds like the recording just captures the notes, handcuffing the artist to a "studio" sound. Revery's sound here doesn't have that restrained feel to it, but I can only imagine it live.

The sound seems to incorporate elements of the sludge filled Seattle sound of bands like Pearl Jam and Stone Temple Pilots, and mixes it with a Southern flavor. The blend is filtered through a rock processor and out comes this collection of songs ready to be turned up to 11.

The album opens with the driving "Look at What You've Done". A wall of guitars backs the vocals which reach through with an immediacy that will grab you and draw you in. That is followed by the equally driving, "Sugar Star". Then comes, what I feel to be, the first single for Revery, "In the Way She". It has a strong groove, a catchy rhythm, and falls in the universal language of a relationship gone south.

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Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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  • 1 - Ricky Byrum

    Jul 24, 2008 at 3:40 pm

    Kewl Page...

    Peace

    Ricky Byrum

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