Revamped project with impressive new vocalist
Californian band Slaves have been around the music scene since 2014 and when the original lead singer Jonny Craig left the band, the remaining band members took it upon themselves to find a new lead singer. Former The Voice contestant Matt McAndrew is the new lead singer for Slaves and his voice brings superior emotions and power to each track. Guitarists Colin Vieira, Weston Richmond and Felipe Sanchez light the album up with astounding guitar notes and drummer Zachary Baker produces heart pounding drum beats as well. To Better Days is promising music and will be their last album under the name Slaves. As supporters of the BLM movement, the band has stated on Facebook that they “cannot continue to tie [their] music and [their] positive message to a word associated with such negative weight and hurt” and will be undergoing a name change.
Eye opening “Talk To A Friend” introduces listeners to a reformed band because the record gives people a chance to hear what McAndrew is capable of as the band’s new lead singer and he shines brightly on this track because he brings a heavy dose of pop music sound. His voice can convince people how serious this piece is through the lyrics. McAndrew has his foot on the gas pedal with “Talk To A Friend” and fans will not be disappointed.
Graceful “Footprints” is a bittersweet serenade filled with well-sung vocals. What is simply mesmerizing while listening to this track is how delightful and sincere McAndrew’s voice sounds while he sings in bliss. McAndrew does a nice job with keeping his vocal range on a harmonic flow and staying attuned with the rest of the band. Also, the crooning by McAndrew adds a sentimental touch by how loving his tone sounds throughout this piece. “Footprints” is a lovely tune that can touch the souls of those who are willing to listen.
Roaring “Eye Opener” is a piece that consists of deep guitar riffs. On the entire composition, Vieira’s bass guitar can be heard rumbling thunderous riffs that help strengthen the musical structure, Sanchez’s rhythm guitar playing creates a vibe with sharp notes which keeps the music together with high strung noise and Richmond’s guitar skills blast the atmosphere with sets of lively notes that compliment the steady musical flow the rest of the band is playing. “Eye Opener” is a tune that is crafted by three talented guitarists.
Truthful “Like I Do” is a nicely written song that is vocal about the differences on how people treat others and how they treat themselves. The lyrics are honest because the emotional wording can leave listeners with a feeling of realism and the realness shows how people know more about themselves than people think. The chorus “No one fucks with me like I do/ and after everything I’ve been through/ no fucks with me like I do” is stating how people are in charge of their own lives despite the obstacles they have faced. “Like I Do” is a catchy tune with an incredible meaning behind it.
Hard hitting “Bury A Lie” not only has a tremendous musical structure but also has Baker playing wonderful drum beats. While listening to the music, the sound of Baker smashing the cymbals with his drum sticks creates a noise of determination and vengeance. The clashing drum style also helps shape what the theme of the song is and what is noticeably amusing about Baker’s drumming is how he is able to maintain a consistent and steady musical flow while the rest of the band continues to play on a faster pace. “Bury A Lie” has a great punch of drum playing.
To Better Days marks a new beginning for Slaves and there is nothing to stop them from performing worthy music.
Leave a Comment