A solid sound from a new kid on the block
My Dynamite's debut draws not from the popular rock or metal style that floods the radio of the modern era, but more takes a step back in time as far as back as the early 90s or late 80s with groups like Kiss, Aerosmith, and even Led Zeppelin with a clean, catchy modern sound that isn't all power chords or extremely loud drumming.
When hearing tracks like "All That She Brings", the vocal harmonies definitely make one smile and the guitars have a great progressive tendency to go between sharp chugs and softer, more melodic interludes that are well layered within each other. Other tracks like "For in Your Tongue" touch upon the country rock vibe that is a very different take, merging a sound that The Black Keys might do with Cage the Elephant, which again shows My Dynamite's ability to create a modern sound while still touching upon an old school vibe. Some faster pieces like "If We're Livin'" are just direct classic rock tracks that sound a bit like Van Halen and will definitely appeal to fans who like the sound of the late 80s.
Of course there are a few repetitions here and there. Between "Inside Out" and "Dirty Game" the band touches upon the same riffs, but My Dynamite strives to have some distinctions, such as featuring a bit of saxophone upon "Dirty Game", though it is difficult to hear when layered with the guitars. Other tracks like "Big Attraction" feature a bit of piano as well for a more classical sound that strives to get away from the conventional rock orientation that they usually aim for.
Overall, the best news about this self titled debut is that it is varied and highly entertaining as it blends jazz, rock, and even country altogether for a smooth sound that isn't jarring or too haphazard that it becomes difficult to really figure out where My Dynamite is headed. A must have for those who like direct rock n' roll without all the modern frills or clichéd lyrics.
(Listenable Records/Rocket Distribution)
