Photo courtesy of Red Wanting BlueOhio-based Red Wanting Blue’s eigth album “These Magnificent Miles” was released Aug. 9.The miles may have been magnificent for indie rockers Red Wanting Blue but the album born on the way sounds more like a boring vacation.
“These Magnificent Miles,” the eighth album released by Ohio’s own Red Wanting Blue, was released on Aug. 9. “These Magnificent Miles” is worthy of an ample amount of respect considering the band has been creating music for more than a decade without the help of a record label. In the same respect, it’s a shame to see all that indie freedom used to create this average album with its assortment of tracks that sound like songs you would hear at the grocery store.
“Gravity,” the first track on the album, is a surprising highlight considering the song is about becoming an astronaut and having the ability to move stars. The driving melody of the second verse accompanied by the deep tone of lead singer Scott Terry is catchy. The lyrics are clever and lighthearted, getting the album off to an acceptable start.
Following “Gravity” is the toe-tapping, “You’re My Las Vegas.” I didn’t think a song featuring a ukulele could go wrong, but sadly the lyrics are obtuse in comparison to the extremely catchy, swinging melody.
“The World is Over” is a great dancing song with the pumping beat of the chorus, even though it describes the topic death. The witty lyrics entangled in the surprisingly optimistic track make it another one of the few tracks with a personality.
The album as an “autographical journey,” as described in a statement by the band, is clearly illustrated in the fifth track, “Finger in the Air.” Red Wanting Blue does a commendable job of making the track anthem-like for listeners who have endured hardships in their lives. Terry’s struggle with being in love while on the road is also apparent in the final track, “The Band,” as he contrasts his status as a rolling stone in a music group rather than a diamond in a wedding band, fearing his words will not compare to the staying-power of a diamond.
Three years in the making, “These Magnificent Miles” is simply missing ample amounts of passion, staying-power and originality. Red Wanting Blue is undoubtedly capable of much more considering their musical talent exceeds their unenthusiastic, mediocre lyrics in most of the tracks. Red Wanting Blue gets a thumbs up for effort although a work of art born out of three years of hardship should resemble something with more substance.
Kristen Duwe can be reached at [email protected].
