Growing up in the small town of Selma Alabama, the members of Laylines witnessed racial segregation. The lesson they learned from that was to accept diversity and to embrace all things new and different. The result was to funnel that energy into their music.
This is certainly evident in their self-titled EP, Laylines. Only three songs, but these are three distinct and original tracks. The songs are melodic, lyrical, rich, full and clearly are meant to be played loud. I hear several influences, but the songs, and the band itself, are unique.
Members Justin Flave, Zac Howard, Adam Pope, and Gregg Brown all had histories and beginnings with other bands local to the Selma Alabama region. Through mutual friends and similar goals, the four found their way together, beginning with Flave and Brown becoming a songwriting team.
On the forming of the band, Justin Flave, lead vocals and guitar, said:
We were just a couple of friends who liked Metallica, Hum and Sunny Day, who got together and rocked out. We got inspired by bands from other towns because there's not really a scene there (Selma). There're a couple of other bands there. But they're all just ripping off Godsmack. They're not really original bands or anything. We really couldn't look up to the bands around us. The only scene there is, is that; but we're not a part of it.
That thematic goal of maintaining originality and integrity in their music is one they have been successful in holding on to with this EP. "Bethlehem", "Hold", and "Freemind" are equally good tunes, heavy on the loud driving guitar and synthesized accompaniments. Flave's voice is distinctive and his delivery is impressive and powerful.
In this day and age, when record labels are only interested in the formula and radio is only in for the flavor of the moment, it would seem this goal wouldn't be the smartest business-end decision. But this doesn't seem to be the case. College radio has given these tracks a spin, and the band has seen interest from major labels. Personally, I think if they hang on to their style, it will take them far.
Article comments
1 - daniel kynard
Laylines are an amazing band. I've had a front row seat since their conception and have seen them come full circle in crafting themselves as a band and songwriters. The maturity of the songs are above and beyond anything coming out of the southeast if not the country.Finally a band that shows the world that rock music is enough.
much luv
2 - Matthew Steadham
The very first time I saw Laylines at a show, I have to admit; I laughed. But after hearing the sensational sound from the amplifiers, my jaw dropped. It had occured to me, that I had never heard any other band sound like that before. From that day forward, I was hooked. It's really good to see such an awesome group of talented friends form up to create one of the best sounds from the south.
3 - james hetfield
a band after my own heartaaa!!!
4 - Connie Phillips
Thanks all for the comments. I certainly agree that this band takes the very basis of good ol' fashion Rock to a brand new level.
5 - Tonewah
Daniel said it right. 'And doughnuts for all...'
6 - Connie Phillips
Thanks, Tonewah,
I look forward to the opportunity to see and hear them live. The EP is truly exceptional.