Frantic Planet
It always starts off well with a band who cites Syd Barrett as an influence. Ten points for Frantic Planet.
The record open “Games We Play”, beginning with a snappy guitar riff and drums and bass to complement it nicely. Steve’s vocals kick in almost right away and I’m treated to a catchy tune that gets my feet tapping from the get-go. I start listening to the lyrics as the song unfolds before me, and I am enthralled. “Games We Play” is basically about manipulation. The lyrics are thought provoking and will bring to mind the times we have been played, hurt, taken for a ride.
As for the instrumentation of this piece, I absolutely love the guitar work. It sounds fantastic and there is clearly some serious talent here. The rhythm is contagious and the drums make it work. The bass falls in place perfectly and the sound of this song is very good. Steve’s vocals are perfect for this piece. His voice blends smoothly with the music and everything flows together extremely well. With the lyrics, Steve’s vocals, and the instrumentation of this song, I would be absolutely delighted to hear “Games We Play” performed live. This is a crowd pleaser like none other.
The second track, “You’re So Cold,” gives me a better sense of what Frantic Planet can do and what they are really about. It’s got a bit of a British punk rock feel to it and it just flows beautifully. Steve’s vocals are vaguely reminiscent of Iggy Pop combined with Billy Idol, and a bit of Richard Butler from the Psychedelic. This is a great piece of music and Frantic Planet has done it perfectly in their signature style.
“Lonely Days Again” tones it down a notch, showing the lighter side of this band. This is a melodic tune that makes me want to hold someone while I close my eyes and drift off into oblivion, feeling warm and safe and content. The instrumentation on this is gorgeous. The sound is excellent. Steve’s vocals really come through crisp and clean. I can also hear each individual note that comes from each instrument. “Lonely Days Again” is currently my personal favorite so far.
The next piece, “No Control,” starts with a guitar riff that makes me think of Kings of Leon for a minute. There is some funk going on in this one, then Steve starts to sing and I am reminded again of Richard Butler with a touch of Ian Curtis of Joy Division. The guitar really takes this track to a new level and this is another stellar piece of musical talent put on display by Frantic Planet.
The final track, “California Nights,” takes it down quite a few notches with a Jim Morrison approach. Eerie, giving chills, this song has serious attitude and I dig it.
Frantic Planet combines several influences on this short five song album, and I am confident that there is much more lying in reserve.
Review written by Rhonda Readence
Recent Comments