Based out of Orange County, California, Bristol to Memory formed in the mid-2000s. Consisting of Rory O’Connell (vocals, guitar), Kealan O’Connell (bass), Ken Aquino (guitar), and Alex Buster (bass), Bristol to Memory is the best alternative rock band that has been gaining some momentum over the past few years. With a steady fan base in their native California, they have toured the West Coast and played on the Vans Warped Tour back in 2009. Don’t Hold Your Breath is their fourth release and you would be doing yourself a disservice if you let this one pass by you unnoticed.
Don’t Hold Your Breath packs more emotion and talent in four songs than most bands hope for in a full length release. Starting off this gem of an EP is “Marty McDy.” It is like a sweet breeze of air that comes on that perfect spring day. It has an infectious beat and the clever and intelligent lyrics backed by Rory’s voice bring this and the rest of the songs onto a higher level. “Cherry Cheeks” is another sizzling track that really gets going when we get to the chorus for the first time and it never looks back. Just let yourself be taken in by the story that the lyrics tell and the smooth tunes. It gets better with each listen.
“Hold On” is a relentless release of energy with its hard rocking sound. It is another gem of songwriting from these guys. This song is explosive like a volcano and do not be surprised if you find yourself jamming out with the song. It is hard not to feel the passion coming from the vocals. If you did not think they could top themselves after the previous three songs, “Truth” closes this release out in grand fashion. I almost want to say that this is my favorite of the four, but they are all so fantastic that it is too hard to choose a definite favorite song.
Bristol to Memory’s Don’t Hold Your Breath is not a revolution in the Alternative Rock genre, but I will be gladly damned if it does not set a new standard. These guys have mastered their craft and not a beat is wasted. After listening to this a few times, I wish I had my own stamp of approval because I would not hesitate to put it on this.
Key Tracks: ALL
Brian McKinnon – Sr. MuzikReviews.com Staff
September 7, 2012
