Rough Edge: 286 CD Reviews

286

"286" (Self-produced; 2007)

It took me a few listens, but I finally realized who 286's self-titled full-length CD reminds me of. And that's Cinderella (the band, not the Disney character).

Like Cinderella, 286 deliver a solid dose of big-guitar rock'n'roll here, complete with chunky riffs, blistering leads and a raw-throated vocalist who adds a scorching edge to each track.

It's not nearly as bluesy as most of Cinderella's stuff and (unlike Cinderella) the glam level is practically non-existent, but the comparison stands. With this eponymous CD, 286 have played and recorded the pure rock'n'roll music they wanted to play and the result is about as honest an album as you can find. As if that wasn't enough good news, the CD kicks ass, too.

My favorite tracks on the CD were the first one, "Mr. But," and the rollicking "Record Store Prophets," but there isn't a bad song on the CD. My only complaint is that I think the production could be taken up a notch but, being a self-released CD, the band has done wonders with their typically limited resources.

286: Adam Joad - vocals; Nikee Verry - bass & vocals; Pete Pace - drums; Martin Verry.

For more information, check out http://www.286music.com.

"Profiled" (Self-produced; 2005)

Reviewed by Snidermann

286 may have a simple name, but there's nothing simple about this band.

"Profiled" is tight, solid rock that jumps out of the CD player with an ear-splitting intensity that is astounding. This Los Angeles based band can rock hard and heavy and do so throughout. The only negative I can see here is that this EP contains only five songs running about 17 minutes total. I wanted more right away! Still, because "Profiled" rocks and rolls all the way through, I have spun these cuts continuously and they still sound great!

One of the signs of great music is that it stays with you long after you've actually heard it. "Profiled" does just that. 286 are heavy hitters that rock hot and heavy. I can't wait to hear more from this band and their full-length release. As an EP, "Profiled" easily rates three guitarsaws; a full-length would no doubt gain the full four.

286: Adam Joad - vocals; Nikee Verry - bass & vocals; Pete Pace - drums; Martin Verry.

For more information, check out http://www.286music.com.

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.

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