Arena rock lives! From Denver, Colorado comes the mile high rock and roll of Double Down. Having once lived in that fine city, I remember the music scene there as being one of the best I’ve experienced anywhere, and this kick ass band certainly upholds the tradition. “Polarity” is the second release from the group, which includes Jeff Browning and Darren Banach on guitars, bass, and vocals, with Paul Jarrett on drums, although the band has undergone some personnel changes since this recording. While their first CD, “Still Motion”, had a bit more of a Southern rock flavor, this new one detours from the country and takes it straight downtown with a well-produced album they describe as “more refined and complex.” If by “refined” they mean: rock your socks off, then it’s an accurate description.
Double Down comes charging out of the gate with guitars blazing on the opening tune, “Icarus,” About half way through they dish out the first of many surprises as the songs slip into a quieter middle section of synthesizer, bass, and vocal, eventually leading into a tasty lead guitar solo that reminded me a bit of Slash from Guns and Roses, a band they cite as one of their influences. Even at this early point in the CD, it is evident that Double Down is very tight, with the two guitars working together like a well-oiled machine. Another example of this six-string synergy is on “The Life I Breathe,” with one guitar laying down thick slabs of molten metal while the other interweaves chiming arpeggiated notes on the chorus.
The song called “Black Tie” was also a highlight for me and kicks off with a cool Stones-style riff, jangly guitars, and mid tempo beat before dropping the hammer and heading into heavier territory about half way through. There is even an unexpected little interlude that called to mind The Police. This song shows off the band’s command of dynamics and their ability to take a song into different sections throughout the course of it, rather than just plodding along on one track like so many groups do. The album is full of these kinds of changes and is one of the standout features of Double Down.
The acoustic guitars come out on track 4, “Wrecking Ball,” which has a bit more of an alt. rock feel to it – that is until about two thirds of the way through when they kick it up a notch and feature a smoking twin guitar lead. This song reflects another band that they mention as a major influence: The Gin Blossoms, one of my favorites of the 90’s. Their inspiration is felt on a number of songs on “Polarity” and is an interesting contrast to some of their heavier rock influences. I was also reminded a bit of Tom Petty on songs like this one and “Long Vacation.” The album yielded a final surprise for me on the last track, “Fallen”, with a dreamy guitar hook, reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix’s “Little Wing” that opens and closes the song.
Double Down has an abundance of all the elements necessary to take them to the next level: musicianship, vocals, songwriting, dynamics, and raw power with a touch of sensitivity. Check out their music to experience a real Rocky Mountain high.
Reviewed By Michael Diamond
