Album Review: The Gray Vines EP

2017
6 songs
Length: 19:44
Available to buy from Bandcamp

The Gray Vines are a two-piece alternative rock band based in New Jersey. With Jake Hoffman on guitar and lead vocals, and Jill Deegan on bass; the duo boast a post-grunge sound that incorporates elements of power pop, post-punk and glam rock, while tipping their hat to their musical influences.

Their debut self-titled debut EP is explosive, energetic and raw with an overarching power pop sound. Produced by Marc Swersky, a two time Grammy winner who has previously worked with such artists as Joe Cocker and Roger Daltry; it was recorded at Shorefire Recording Studios in Long Branch, New Jersey over five days.

‘Walkin’ On’ combines a power pop chorus with post-punk swagger. Hoffman exudes self-assurance, both with his guitar playing and vocally, spitting out lyrics with Iggy Pop attitude. Deegan adds a robust, fuzzy bassline to the mix.

‘Dear Friend’ is unadulterated power pop a la The Posies. With its strong melody, striking guitar riffs and uplifting vocal harmonies, it is perfectly executed.

‘Just to You,’ is the EP’s catchy debut single (you can check out the video below). It kicks off with a dirty bassline and Hoffman’s compelling vocals, before the interjection of crisp guitar chords and then a catchy power pop chorus. Deegan’s backing vocals harmonise nicely with Hoffman’s and the heavy guitar; particularly throughout the bridge, which again is another exquisite example of power pop at its finest.

‘Do You,’ is a catchy, pop rock number with dirty guitars that hints at psychedelic, space rock. Personally, I would love to see The Gray Vines explore the space rock sound further.

The band wear their influences on their sleeve at times. Steeped in glam rock charm, ‘Silver Moon’ encompasses an elongated, wistful, wah guitar sound that is unmistakably 1970’s Bowie. ‘Turn Around’ could be a Queens of the Stone Age song. The power chord progressions, crunchy guitars, booming percussion; Hoffman even sings like Josh Homme.

The Gray Vines is a strong debut from an accomplished band. Both Deegan and Hoffman are clearly very talented musicians with a grasp on a variety of rock music genres. The band nail every style they try their hand at on this EP. As they continue to make music and evolve their sound, I think we can expect some very exciting things to come from The Gray Vines.