Piedmont Charisma Aptly Named
Review of Self-Titled Debut Album
Having no previous exposure to this indie band from the North Carolina mountains, the instant that "Get with the Spinoff" came through my speakers I thought I had mistakenly put in one of my early 80s cds. Resonant of early Talking Heads, Devo, or the Fall, Piedmont Charisma has heavy keyboard energy and a New Wave beat driven musical aesthetic.
Each song holds its own magic and moves the 12-track album along an interesting musical coaster. Throughout the album, Charles Corriher's vocals hold a sharp intensity and Emily "Staton" has a high profile with her keyboard.
The collaboration of Joshua Carpenter and Chad Pry (on drums and bass respectively) kept many of the songs rolling at a clip. Ben Ridings (the guitarist) was many times powered out by other elements within the band, but when present, made a definite positive impact.
"Don't Ever Surrender," "Get with the Spinoff," and "Casual 376 " match decent lyrics to strong musical innovation, making them the strongest three songs on the album. It sounds at moments that the band's a bit green, but this album's pretty solid. I'd imagine the newer songs found on their split seven inch album will be even stronger.
Check it out.
Each song holds its own magic and moves the 12-track album along an interesting musical coaster. Throughout the album, Charles Corriher's vocals hold a sharp intensity and Emily "Staton" has a high profile with her keyboard.
The collaboration of Joshua Carpenter and Chad Pry (on drums and bass respectively) kept many of the songs rolling at a clip. Ben Ridings (the guitarist) was many times powered out by other elements within the band, but when present, made a definite positive impact.
"Don't Ever Surrender," "Get with the Spinoff," and "Casual 376 " match decent lyrics to strong musical innovation, making them the strongest three songs on the album. It sounds at moments that the band's a bit green, but this album's pretty solid. I'd imagine the newer songs found on their split seven inch album will be even stronger.
Check it out.
Published by Shauna Osborn
Shauna Osborn is a poet, writing instructor, editor, and freelance artist. Her first book manuscript is currently under review for publication. View profile
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- 1. Resonant of early Talking Heads, Devo, or the Fall
- 2.
- 3. has heavy keyboard energy and a New Wave beat
Piedmont Charisma has a new Split 7inch record with Raleigh NC's BLACK CASTLE