Search - Epidemic :: Epidemic

Jessica T. (jessicatok) from LINCOLN, NE
Reviewed on 4/23/2007...

"Walk Away," the first track, is still a heavy hitter, and puts this CD squarely in the vein of Saliva, Revis, Earshot, and other newer hard-rock bands that tirelessly turn out catchy rock. Crunchy guitar work and intense vocals make this a "must-try" CD. You'll think, "Hey, I really liked this song when it first came out, I didn't know it was 'this' band!"

Solid rock debut

Robert L. Thompson III | Columbia, MO USA | 06/26/2002

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Featuring four band members, all from different origins - frontman Boris (Holland), guitarist Bruce Allen (Memphis, Tennessee), bassist Jimmy McDaniel (New Orleans) and drummer Tim Ganard (Louisiana) - the LA-based quartet went through various projects before meeting one another and forming the band under the name American Murder. After a year of shows and demoing, the group secured a deal with Elektra Records and, following the name change to their current moniker Epidemic, entered the studio with producer Rick Parashar (Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains, Nickelback) to record their S/T debut, which is slated for release on June 25, 2002.Brandishing a powerful, yet melodically driven style of hard rock, Epidemic emerges as a cross between the dark & moody intensity of such bands as Staind, Godsmack & Edify, and the commercial appeal of the more accessible Creed and Nickelback. Musically, the band covers all extremes, ranging from hard-hitting, punkish, garage-rock stylings to more sensitive, ballad-like musings as well as contrasts between the two, while the sound as a whole is rooted in a strong foundation of melody. Composition wise, Epidemic utilizes compelling, hook-oriented songwriting and solid musicianship to craft edgy, yet appealing songs that feature boisterous guitars, catchy hooks, dramatic melodies, and a tight rhythm section, all of which is offset by dynamic breakdowns and an overall sense of rawness that captures the live, organic feel of the band. Providing the final, and perhaps strongest, component to the Epidemic sound is the presence of frontman/songwriter Boris, whose potent blend of grunge-esque screaming/singing, somber Nickelback/Default-like harmonies, and personal lyrics express the nature of the band with undeniable passion and conviction. Overall, Epidemic has crafted a brand of hard rock that may not exactly be unique in its formula or execution, yet excels with its ability to be engaging without taking away from the truthfulness or sincerity of the band. Marked by a sense of timelessness and sublime emotional expression that is notably lacking in most of today's modern Rock acts, Epidemic's S/T debut delivers with mammoth force throughout the twelve songs found on the Rick Parashar-produced album. Immediately leading off the record is the dynamic first single Walk Away, an energetic & catchy anthem led by memorable choruses and strong melodies. From there the album does a great job of diversifying, ranging from dark & aggressive to beautiful & melancholic as exemplified by such standout tracks as the acoustic-like Disconnected, the emotional Make No Mistake, and the epic, ending track Burden with its powerful, soaring choruses. On the more aggressive, and perhaps less memorable, side are such tracks as the visceral, punk/garage-rock influenced Equilibrium with its cathartic guitars & effects driven vocals, the driving assertiveness of the scream-laden Catalyst & the more controlled & contrasting Generic The Norm, both of which contain excellent melodic breakdowns, while Under The Current is a dark, semi-insistent song, led by harmonious choruses and aggressive breakdowns. Other more notable tracks include the unforgettable Slightest Trace, a great up-tempo number featuring infectious harmonies & choruses, the melodically driven, emotionally rousing Individual, and the versatile Currency with its stunning verses and energetic choruses. As a whole, despite a few weak areas regarding originality, lack of consistency from song to song, and, to some extent, production, this S/T record is a very strong debut, containing not only a nice variety of songs, but also a number of potential radio hit singles that should easily establish Epidemic as the next big name in Rock..."

Awesome

12/13/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I absolutely love this cd! Walk Away was awesome when I heard it on the radio and I fell in love with it! But once you listen to it it gets even better! Burden of a Thought is the best song on there and it rocks! Truly great! Slightest Trace, Disonnected, and Currency of Cynics are great too! Definitely worth buying!"