Album: EP 2
Artist: The Honeyrunners
For fans of the rock and roll and blues music of the 1960s and 70s, The Honeyrunners new album, EP 2, is definitely worth listening to. As you can guess from the name, this is the Toronto-based band’s second EP and is available on their website, along with their first album, appropriately, EP 1. Influenced by music legends like Jimi Hendrix and Elvis, as well as modern soul rock like that of Jack White, The Honeyrunners is an emerging band worthy of the attention that they have been receiving.
Formed in October of 2012, The Honeyrunners quickly gained a large fan base. They’ve been compared to bands like Crosby, Nash and Young, and The Allman Brothers, but The Honeyrunners? music is rock and roll with Motown, neo-punk, soul, and rhythm and blues tossed in to create a sound unequalled in music today.
The first song, “Under Control”, caught my attention. Starting off with the strong drums and keyboard, the band’s influences are easily identified. But, the song’s strong vocals and stirring guitar add something to the song that hasn’t been heard in modern rock in a long time. After a couple of repeats of the song, I found myself singing along and loving the rhythm of the song.
The song “Hold me” starts with a sound that instantly reminded me of Five Man Electric Band’s song “Signs.” But, once again, the vocals and lyrics add a uniqueness and modern twist to the song that allows the music to move from the past influences into a world all its own. It was also in this song that I noticed the killer blues-infused guitar playing. The addition of the guitar solos and riffing is something that has been missing in most modern music.
My favourite song on this album is “River Song.” The Deep South blues sound has always been a favourite of mine, so I was excited when I heard this song. The pounding rhythm of the drums and guitar, plus the epic vocals with a modern flare, make this song stand out to me. This song is energizing and the lyrics fit the song perfectly. I would love to hear “River Song” on a vinyl record. This song sounds like it naturally belongs on vinyl.
I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed this album, although I do find at times that the keyboard is a little overpowering and distracting to the ears. Personally, I think the vocals and guitar are the strengths of this band’s sound, and that the keyboard could be toned down a little so that it isn’t the predominant sound at times. Yet I can see myself playing The Honeyrunner’s music while relaxing with friends or out for a drive. This album seems to inspire that carefree and laid-back feeling that was imbued into older rock and roll and blues music.
The Honeyrunners will begin touring in the US in November of this year.
Samantha Stevens is an aspiring writer who loves combining her love for literature with photography, painting, music, and all creative pursuits.