What's Up! Magazine

Summer has given way to fall. School is back in session, and for many of us the fruits of summer are now replaced by classes, timelines and all the things we have to do. The Valentines Day EP by Vintage Rhymes and Valentines puts us in that place with fond memories of change and growth.

The EP’s sound is best described as young, experimental, indie-folk rock. There is an upbeat sense of fun as the EP progresses. Marcel Ardans’ voice is a bright tenor, both emotive and melodic at times. His guitar playing is solid, especially on acoustic based songs.

Thayne Yazzie on lead guitar plays some fast runs and holds back until the time is right. Trent Eason on piano and organ has a great sense of melody and flow. Bassist and backup vocalist Jenna Freeman has a very sweet voice, and her bass playing is in the pocket. Drummer Tim Elliot does a good job of keeping the music flowing.

Unfortunately the recording quality is more on the level of a demo, rather than an EP. The mix is unevenly distributed to the vocals and lead guitar, leaving the rhythm section muddy and in the dark. Highlighting the band’s best songs, omitting the weaker tracks would have given the EP more strength. The lead guitar work is fast, but lacks a sense of solid timing. But above said guitar waited “till timing was right.”

The first track, “The New Year,” has almost a “Peanuts” type feel to it, largely due to the Piano timbre. “The Ballad of Johnny and a Girl” was the highlight of the EP. A tragic tale beautifully played on acoustic guitar and ukulele with emotive vocals and great song structure.

The CD packaging is awesome, like a folded recycled paper cup. The lyrics were printed on a sheet inside, but were a bit hard to read.

Overall the group seems to be having a fun time, and that’s always a good thing. There’s some artistic talent being developed within this band, and it will be interesting to see how their focus moves forward.

Self-Released
myspace.com/vintagerhymesandvalentines