Owenstone is the hard-hitting album by the band of the same name. There is plenty of challenge in the album. Rhythmic beats provide momentum, and fast tracks create a well-executed album. It also has enough variety for the average listener.
Owenstone gets off to a great start with “The Next Day We Get Paid.” The lead singer sings about his sweat as he looks forward to his next pay check. Absolute empathy can be gained from the listeners as they tune into the keyboards and synthesized strings. As the everyday woes of the rent, the car, the food, and bar, plague the lead singer, he looks towards the next moment.
“The Face” is a song about confrontation and discovery. As the lead vocalist considers talking to his reflection, there are plenty of blasting drums and guitars. The impassioned album also adds some cool riffs. The track, “Summer Lane,” could represent the best of Summer music, with a grooving melody that would sound great at a big stadium or a sold out concert. It’s a light breezy track, that doesn’t so much drag, but leave the audience to appreciate the freedom of the Summer. With a hope for new scenery, the lead singer dreams of the great sights and sounds of the season.
“Days of Smoke” is an anecdotal story. With processed vocals, the lead singer recalls the “Days of Smoke” that drift away. The keyboards are light here, and compliment the other sounds on the album.
On the final track, the band asks if who we are is defined with what we do. It’s not so much a soul searching journey, but a personal treatise that has been considered, tested, and ready to shared via blaring guitar solos. “Who We Are” is an uptempo song that reminds us that “buildings are built on the strength of our backs.”
All in all, Owenstone is a fine album, particularly for fans of rock music. It’s worth a listen.