The proverbial “they” have been known to make the claim that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. While that may be true in some areas of life, I’m not sure if it’s true for music.
Of course, all bands have their inspirations what they strive to be like, and that influence can be heard in their music. For the most part, though, bands generally work in the influence of their musical idols around their own style. I can’t say that’s the case for Whiskey Six.
Whiskey Six’s self-titled EP is one of those records that leaves the listener with a feeling of “been there, done that.” The band seems to be aiming for the blues-tinged, southern-hard-rock style, channeling the likes of ZZ Top but, while doing so, Whiskey Six never really finds a sound of their own. Rather than using their musical inspirations to create their own style around, Whiskey Six brought in so much outside influence that it overpowers what could have been something new and different.
Consequently, Whiskey Six ends up feeling somewhat generic. Don’t get me wrong; the band does an admirable job of hitting upon a style that isn’t heard often these days. It’s raw and gritty with a matured angst to it, and the instrument playing and vocals are very well done. However, it just isn’t an album that comes across as unique to Whiskey Six. Rather, it feels like any band citing the same musical influences as Whiskey Six could have done it.
As I mentioned, though, the quality of Whiskey Six, as far as their ability to play and vocalize is concerned, is excellent. The talent is definitely there, as is the potential for a really good album. Whiskey Six is almost there, but hopefully future endeavors will show the band developing its own distinct style more.
May 21, 2010
