"Started off easy, and it lost control,” begins singer Ryan Powell of the 5-piece rock band, Wheelhouse. Their CD debut, Say Hello, does just that. Hold onto your chairs, because you’re about to bob your head down a new musical road paved with driving rhythms, catchy hooks, and a rock ‘n roll delivery that will kick your ass. Say, "Hello” to your next favorite band: Wheelhouse.
“Wounded,” the hard driving opening track of the LP, would quickly have been my choice for best new rock song if it weren’t for track two, “Gasoline.” The opening drum rhythm, baseline, and congas of this tune (performed by Michael Russell, Chris Welch, and Matt McClain respectively) kick things off in a highly groove-able tribal-like manner. Powell delivers the hook with a controlled yet ballsy grit to proclaim, "If love is like gasoline, I'm gonna light it up and watch it burn." In today’s world of Mp3 singles, this is definitely one for your collection. However, I recommend the whole CD. You can’t go wrong.
Though mainly a rock ‘n roll release, Wheelhouse does mix in a couple of slower tunes. Not to worry, though. They’re still good. “Say Hello,” the title track to the album, is a bit less rockin’ and more pop friendly. It is highly contagious, however. The simple but truly addictive guitar riff hasn’t left my head all day. The verses and chorus of this and many of the songs on this CD are delivered in a very unique fashion. It’s a nice creative change from the standard imitation rock songs of the day. I can't really compare it to any other artist, which is a big complement to the band and to primary songwriter Matt McClain.
Let me not forget to mention another gem, "Burnt Out." Opening with a smooth, pull-off heavy guitar riff, the chord structure is quite catchy, and the multiple vocals doubling the chorus give the song a lot of power. If you really want a true head-bobbing song, "Burnt Out" is it.
My only disappointment with this CD is that it is just over a half-hour long. However, it is a half hour that will stay in my play list for some time. Wheelhouse’s Say Hello is truly a unique approach to modern rock ‘n roll and is highly recommended.
"Started off easy, and it lost control,” begins singer Ryan Powell of the 5-piece rock band, Wheelhouse. Their CD debut, Say Hello, does just that. Hold onto your chairs, because you’re about to bob your head down a new musical road paved with driving rhythms, catchy hooks, and a rock ‘n roll delivery that will kick your ass. Say, "Hello” to your next favorite band: Wheelhouse.