Review: Raftree-The Long Way

Raftree is a rock band headed up by vocalist Ken Raftree.

In 12 tracks on their debut album The Long Way they have no problem maintaining a strong momentum from start to finish.

Every good rock album needs to kick off with an eye brow raising track and "What I Say" is a perfect introduction to the no nonsense approach of this band.

There are some pretty nifty guitar licks throughout this release and fortunately the production values of this recording are solid so it does not drown out the vocals. Ken's vocals seize the moment within in each song because of this critical factor. He does a standup job in all facets of this hard rocking workout. The driving force of this unit is hell bent for leather six string slinger Paul J. Baccash. Although the guitar man does a good job he doesn't get too flashy, he keeps the showcasing to minimum and puts the slick flourishes right where they need to be giving the vocalist some very good support. On "Over And Over" you hear some playing reminiscent in sound of Ritchie Blackmore during Deep Purple's heyday. It's very inspired playing. Even though the band is named after their front man, without Baccash their source of power would be nonexistent. Just like a power station that feeds hundreds of homes, if it goes down, the lights go off.

The rhythm section is quite good as well. Scott Jackson (bass) and Vincent Livolsi (drums) complete a strong bottom end, fulfilling their obligation as the engine that drives the machine So all the pieces are in place to form a non-stop juggernaut. This being their first release there is always room for improvement and they are not doing anything new or innovative but it sure does rock and if that is what you came to the party for then there is reason to celebrate. The probability of this band getting better is very high if they can manage to stay together and broaden their scope musically.

The main thing is that this is a very good debut and if you like straight ahead hard rock with no frills The Long Way could be the shortest route to a head pounding wall of sound.

4/5 Stars

Key Tracks: Over And Over, What I Say

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck-MuzikReviews.com Founder

February 22, 2011

© MuzikReviews.com

01.What I Say
02.All The Time
03.Room
04.Rage
05.Over And Over
06.The Long Way
07.The Eyes You Hide
08.Center Of Attention
09.Salvation
10.Safe To Say
11.Missing
12.Just Like You