Luckily, no part of this trend affects up-and-coming Boston quartet The Shills. On their recently-released, self-titled debut full-length, the young Northeastern group rocks without shame, announcing its strength with a meticulously written album which, if there is any justice in the world, will offer the band plenty of exposure.
Opening track “Pigeonhole” charges with a guitar line and rhythm section which would not sound out of place on oft-stale alternative radio. Yet any formula is immediately dropped as singer/guitarist Bryan Murphy opens his mouth. The gifted vocalist, graced with a three octave range, drives the track with a showstopping falsetto on the active chorus. Often compared in tone to the late Jeff Buckley, the similarities are sonically accurate, but more representative of Murphy’s ability to steal the spotlight on nearly every song.
But focusing solely on Murphy’s pipes would be a disservice to the rest of the crack band. The whip-smart blend of guitarist Eric Ryrie, bassist Dave Sicilian and drummer James Zaner offers a surprisingly heavy backing section for Murphy’s rich and emotional voice. The gamble works: Whether they are shredding on multi-section tracks such as the swelling “Big Indifference” or soulful jammers such as the understated blues stomp of “But Beware,” the group stays nimble enough to match the intensity of the vocals.
High points are frequent. “Slackjaw America” emerges as Murphy’s most ruckus performance, trading subtlety in for a screamer which shuns America’s media obsession. Power ballad “Big Yellow Steamroller” packs an emotional wallop, featuring an ebbing rhythm section which experiments while retaining melody. Closer “It’s Not Your Thing” perfectly captures the carefree rock and roll spirit which the group is able to encapsulate so well.
Were a gripe to be had with The Shills, it might reference their sub-Shakespearean lyrics. Yet rock music often has little need for brilliant words, instead taking joy in the ability to launch a solid groove. At that, The Shills are more than capable. And though the most compelling aspect of the band is their stunning live act, “The Shills” will more than compensate until you can catch one of their hometown gigs.