Blood on the Tracks you say? I did some research and found out a few intriguing facts about the Santa Clara, California based rock band Blood On The Tracks. Other then the fact that this 3-piece ensemble has only been together for about a year, they landed a multi platinum producer to remix their debut EP. That is an accomplishment on its own as thousands of bands are chomping at the bit for the opportunity to have someone so experienced in the industry mix their debut record. The EP is being released through EM Dash Music and not knowing anything about this label instantly makes me want to check them out. They are obviously doing something right with BOTT.

Onto the music… This one really is a no brainer. After hearing the first 20 seconds of Track 1, “Here Today, Gone Tomorrow” I knew I was in for an enjoyable listening experience. My only knock against that song is it’s only 1:46 in length. I wanted more. Track 2, “In Flames” shifts gears a bit. This song had me wanting to hit the next button but resisting the urge gave me the opportunity to enjoy the vocals and a really nice finish. Track 3, “Tonight” is in the running for my favorite track on the EP. It just makes you want to move your ass and sing along. Alex Villanueva (Guitar/Vocals) really gets things going on this one. Track 4, “Love Is Dead” has the vibe and groove that would make any true music lover want to go out and buy a disco ball, (because it would be the right thing to do). I also read that they have completed a video for this tune so keep an eye out for that. Track 5, “Perfect” takes a turn from the previous two tracks and shows the bands diversity and range of influences. Track 6, “Without You” took me on a stroll down memory lane revisiting some past failed relationships… in a good way. Hey man we all have issues. I would have ended the CD with that track as well.

The guys list a bunch of influences on a few websites such as The Beatles, Bowie, Zeppelin, Dylan, Rush, Muse, Coldplay, and The Mars Volta among others. They also list Motown (before they signed 98 Degrees), which is really funny, and also U2. I really don’t hear the Mars Volta influence and I would like to find out which one of the guys is a Mars Volta fan. I would also like to hear specifically which U2 albums were influential. To have so many influences and yet still be able to create a unique sound they can call their own is what makes this EP so appealing to me.

The guys have just recently been added to the New Panic Tour 2006 that features an array of artists such as National Product, Stole Your Women, Hey Mike!, Strike.Fire.Fall and label mates Livitz Livitz. The tour will be running coast to coast from Late February till early May. I would definitely add these guys to my “Post Rock” genre as well as add them to my “Bands I need to see Live” list. Unfortunately after checking the New Panic Tour schedule I noticed there are no dates in New Jersey. Hey guys… what’s up with that? Who do I have to call over there in the BOTT Camp to get the guys to play The Stone Pony or The Saint?

As a whole the CD is uplifting and inspiring. The vocals are sweet and the bass lines and beats are tight. For the amount of time the guys have been together its no surprise that they are quickly making a name for themselves on the national level. I suggest to anyone who has not heard of Blood On The Tracks, “get this CD in your rotation.” If you are tired of scenester’s, screamers and want something invigorating in ‘06 this is the 1st EP you should pick up. Whether you pop this on first thing in the morning or especially as soon as you get home from work this EP will take the everyday stress out of your life and replace it with soothing hooks that you will surely find yourself singing in the shower.

Official State of Music 7 Word Review
“Like The Hives, Stokes, Killers Buy It”

JoeD
State of Music.com

Browse All Spotlight Reviews >>

Interested in having your Review posted on SoM? Send and us an Email with your review and info and we will respond with details.