Music Review – EP NY 5

Album: EP NY 5

Artist: Stereo Off

Five piece electro-rock band Stereo Off released their new album, EP NY 5, this past January, which was recorded in their own studio in New York City. Formed in 2012, Stereo Off has played some of the city’s top venues. Stereo Off’s music is alluring, entrancing, and all round enjoyable, and they combine the rock music found in venues around NYC with the electronic music found in the dance clubs of London. Their style is a direct reflection of the band’s personal history, and together they have proven that, no matter your musical background (which, for this band, happens to be everything from classical to electronic and hip hop) great music can come from anywhere.

Influenced by classic rock bands, 80s music, and electronic and dance music, Stereo Off’s new album is sure to appeal to a wide range of listeners. Their sound reminds me of The Clash, Arctic Monkeys, Buggles, Daft Punk, and David Bowie all rolled into one with a sprinkle of alternative rock for good measure.

I really enjoyed their album, which is available on their website, but I was a little disappointed that it was so short. With only five tracks on the album, it is typically difficult for bands to demonstrate their skills, especially with such a complicated sound like Stereo Off?s. Yet they were able to showcase their talents, and prove that not only are they musical masters, but they are comfortable with such a diverse genre like electro-rock.

“Photographs” is the first track on the album. The song is dominated by the impressive guitar playing, sensual vocals, and rhythmic drums. This song immediately captured my attention and I was eager to hear more.

Accompanied by a fun and imaginative video, “Bullet Time” is the second song on the album. The video is more of a movie which casts the band members, captures picturesque shots of New York City, and an interesting story. However, I found that the video detracted from the song. The song is beautiful with entrancing vocals and killer keyboard playing. The addition of the strong bass gives the song a suspenseful feeling.

In the song “Effectual” the band focuses on their combination of classic rock and electronic music. It’s followed by the song “The Thrill”, which starts off like a classic 80s song. In fact, the song reminds me of the Buggles’s classic “Video Killed the Radio Star” but this song is much slower, with David Bowie-like vocals.

The final song on the album, “Mi6”, switches the sound so that the song comes across as an alternative rock song with 80s singing. As well, like most older music, the lyrics tell an imaginative story that draws in the listener.

Overall, I really enjoyed this album and I think it is perfect to play at any time, for any occasion. Although, I think it would work best in a social setting, like a pub or bar, or when having a few friends over. If you are in the mood for something different that is true to the classics from which it draws its inspiration, then be sure to check out Stereo Off’s EP NY 5.

Samantha Stevens is an aspiring writer who loves combining her love for literature with photography, painting, music, and all creative pursuits.