Stateside blends many elements of yesterday's music to give today a healthy
dose of real rock done right. They've got a rootsy style without being
redundant. They've got a retro sound without the shallow trappings of today's throwback trends. They're certainly not afraid to show their influences, which take as much from The Stones and The Beatles as from country and blues. And while some of the arrangements and hooks could even be called "standard," they're executed with skill, nuance and feeling. This
is a band that's not trying to reinvent the wheel, just carry on a strong tradition of good rock and roll, drawing elements from the biggest and best to come before them. At times the music sounds distinctly southern, and at other times very British. The songwriting is equally effective spinning a melodic pop tune or bringing on a bar-rock swagger. From the slow swing of songs like "Stranded" to the shack-shaking stomp of "Belle of the Ball,"
Stateside's new full-length CD "Phonograph" delivers the goods.

The musicianship is tight as a noose, and the singing style is often reminiscent of Tom Petty without his characteristic nasal twang. Each song has a chorus that sticks with you like gum to a shoe. And at times, the
band even revisits the lost art of the guitar solo between some fantastic riffs. A number of the tracks are worthy of a hit single, and it's hard to pick highlights because the CD is strong throughout its run time. The catchy-as-hell title track should get them some attention, though, and I could almost smell the stale beer and smoke during "Time, Time, Time."
Stateside is the real deal. This is what classic rock sounds like before it has aged to classic status. Go forth and purchase "Phonograph." Fans of good music will not be disappointed.

 Check out the band online at www.statesiderocks.com .

 

If you are interested in having your CD reviewed by Tim for the Birmingham Buzz, please send email to: timt@bhambuzz.com for info on submitting your material.