Search - SPIN the BOTTLE :: SPIN the BOTTLE

Proving they're not just a cover band....

Jennifer Layton, Indie-Music.com | Cary, NC United States | 04/24/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"With their first full-length, self-titled CD, the band that primarily plays cover songs in their live set proves that they can also write their own material. Their own fun, catchy, rocking, and spirited material. Spin The Bottle is a great rock and roll band.I already knew three of the songs from hearing their earlier demo, including "Gagged and Bound," with its reggae beat and cool groove in the verses and powerful rock delivery in the chorus. I like the character painted in the lyrics: "Pretty little misfit, no one tells her who to be, but the music moves her soul....Thick black lipstick on her icy smile, a silver chain around her neck, spouting hatred for her parents all the while, must be the cutest mess that I have ever met."There's a streak of playfulness in most of their songs, which is appropriate for a band whose bio proudly states that they have been awarded the special endorsement of the drummer's mom. "Told You" is catchy and fun, and Eric Rothenheber shows his impressive vocal range as he hits the high notes. "Free" is downright exhilarating with it's rapid-fire guitar intro and subsequent explosion of sound.They also have a reflective side, as evidenced by "Goodnight Goodbye," a smooth, beautifully crafted slower melody. But my favorites are the songs that turn into a frenzied celebration of sound, like "Let Me," "Difference," and the final track, "She Said Goodbye." These musicians fuse keyboards, guitar, hyper percussion, and vocal harmonies into energizing, bluesy, powerful rock music. I especially liked the bursts of solo percussion on "She Said Goodbye."Spin the Bottle is a great rock and roll band. Check this one out."