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LOVING THE LIE
"Legends of Charm City" (Independent;
2008)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Loving the Lie are a Maryland-based rock band with a
host of pop and pop-punk influences. Loving the Lie’s debut release, “Legends of
Charm City,” contains ten resolutely catchy songs that are not bound by the
standard conventions of pop or pop-punk.
“Legends of Charm City” sounds current without being trendy. And this is the
paradox that hits you square between the eyes when you realize that most
elements of Baltimore culture tend to thrive on the fringes away from the
mainstream while Loving the Lie seem to thrive a little bit closer to
conventional means. That’s not a bad thing – just a little bit unexpected.
The majority of the album is energetic, bouncy, and bursting with explosive
insistent rhythms. “Never Say Die,” “The Letter,” and “Forget Tomorrow” are
three tracks that could compete for airtime with major label bands that benefit
from corporate promotion. On the opposite end of the spectrum, “Sunset” shows
versatility in a near acoustic number that’s as heartfelt as it is earnest. And
just so this doesn’t give the impression that Loving the Lie are some
run-of-the-mill pop-punk outfit, it should be made clear that Loving the Lie
have the hard edges and rough tones to be considered outside the mainstream.
Solid songs and great performances make “Legends of Charm City” a solid release
worthy of attention.
“Legends of Charm City” was produced by Loving the Lie. The production and sound
of this independent release is phenomenal.
Loving the Lie are Kevin Hock on vocals and guitar, Steve Hickey on guitar,
keyboards, and vocals, Frank Carter on guitar, Matt Silkworth on bass and
vocals, and Tyler Kreis on drums. Lauren D’Aria guests on vocals. Bass guitar on
several tracks performed by Greg Stagg. Gang vocals by Jay Szech, Paul Anderson,
Danny Mays, and Joleen Werntz.
For more information visit
http://www.myspace.com/LovingTheLie.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2009 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised:
18 Mar 2024 13:23:52 -0500.
