If you’re into local music, then I’m sure you’ve already heard of a band called Marking Twain. If you haven’t heard of them, I’m going to tell you why you should change that.The quintet is from Oxford, and they are all seasoned vets for how young they are (none older than 22). You not only can hear their maturity in their songwriting, but you can see it in their live shows as well. I’ve been lucky enough to play with and hang out with the boys, and even though their music isn’t what I predominantly listen to, I totally dig it. It takes a lot to change my scene, so that by itself is saying something.
Last year, the boys released their debut album, “The Identity Slip,” and are currently recording their follow-up in Nashville. So, since that’s still in the process of being made, I’m going to review their latest album and hopefully turn some of you own to them.
The first track, “Hey Hey Hey,” starts by sucking you in with the hypnotic drums and trance-like guitar until it totally knocks you on the floor like a shot of Everclear. It’s masterfully layered with so many harmonies, both guitar and vocals, that it takes several listens before you grasp it all.
Now, most bands can’t duplicate this live, but these guys can because they’re so thick. Chris Hellman handles the lead guitar, which he does extremely well, while Drew Butcher handles back-up vocals, guitar, and piano. These guys succeed where so many other bands fail. Reminiscent of Maroon 5 and Incubus, the song serves as a perfect introduction to the band.
The second track, “Madison,” is the perfect radio rock song from the late 90’s and early 2000’s. It’s actually a tragic tale where singer Scott Salmon concedes to love’s power through a single girl. It’s a nice let up from the opener.
Now, if you’re a head-bobber like I am, you’ll love the groove of “Lights Off.” Ben Kubicki grooves on the bass like he’s about to take off with your prom date. The rhythm section is extremely tight, as Jesse Feister tastefully fills in the backbeat and, even though he could, doesn’t do too much and take away from the song.
Hellman’s Stevie Ray Vaughn and John Mayer influence shine on “Your Own Medicine,” as it brings “Couldn’t Stand The Weather” to mind.
The mellow, yet rockin’ “Just a Role” serves as a nice mid-point as it almost closes the first half of the record with the sense of finality it gives with its progressions and tempo.
“Twilight” sounds like it would almost fit in perfectly with the later 311 albums, if not for the Hendrix-like additions Hellman throws in. Feister and Kubicki are as percussive as ever and make it impossible for you not move around.
A throwback to the 70’s, “Hostage” becomes the standout track of the album as it’s simply the most complete song. Featuring everything from rhythm changes and harmonized guitars to great lyrics, meticulous basslines, and harmonized vocals. The hook of the chorus reels you in and doesn’t let you go until the last ringing note.
“Busy” is the perfect title for the eighth track because everyone is busy at work. The song is up-tempo with such a cool guitar rhythm lick that you’re used to it after only one minute when you’re taken completely off course to Latin America. Feister authenticates the sound with hand drums and even some claves. Lots of stops and breaks make this song fun to listen to over and over again because of the innovation and lack of repetitiveness.
For all the ladies, the boys didn’t forget to include a classic ballad. “Glances” is beautifully mixed where neither Butcher’s guitar nor Salmon’s vocals weigh more than the other. The song even includes the 80’s metal solo towards the end. It’s illegally pleasing to the ear.
To top it all off, the classic rock closer “So Far Away” keeps you only wanting more. It’s upbeat and just a straight-up rock song that gets your foot tapping and your head almost banging.
The amazing thing about the album is that the guys had only been a band for six months before the album was completed. It’s scary what their new album will sound like with another year under their belts. Check out their myspace www.myspace.com/markingtwain to hear their newest stuff and to sample the album. They made a believer out of me, and that’s saying a lot.