Given the relatively recent mainstream success of JIMMY EAT WORLD, I really hope that the same kind of luck and spotlight can be brought to Jamie Woolford and his revolving door of musicians known as THE STEREO. Release after release, this band continues to pound out some of the catchiest, largest sounding melodic rock jams that I’ve ever heard. The sheer guitar power and standout vocals are almost overwhelming. This is 100% “arena rock” that needs to be heard by larger audiences. “Rewind+Record” is a thirteen track display of conviction, emotion, and swagger. Woolford handles himself as the key “showman” who understands the importance of a band having a true leader and conductor. Although it’s probably not fair to those who round out the group (former members of POLLEN and ANIMAL CHIN), Woolford’s presence is looming. After a kitchy intro called “Dear Fans of the Stereo,” this release rolls into fifth gear with the thick rocker, “Pay No Attention,” and then into “Don’t Say Uncle,” which blatantly sports a piano rip from BILLY JOEL – at least he’s borrowing from the one of the greatest. The third track is probaby the most sing-along friendly, “You Better Believe It,” will no doubt have you gleaming the words, “You want it, You need it!” Honestly, why the hell hasn’t major radio picked up on this song? As this disc progresses, there are some quieter interludes that keep the songs from running into each other, most notably, “Vice-Versa Inquisition / No Name #2″ which takes dead aim at music critics. “Too Little, Too Late,” is a downright eerie song, led by a keyboard only intro and a simple drum beat. As expected, Woolford’s fantastic singing voice carries this one through. Things get a tad cheesey with the inclusion of “Turn off Your TV,” which although promotes a good message, comes off too silly sounding where a little more poignancy would have been appreciated. Much like ERROR TYPE 11 and THE DESCENDENTS, THE STEREO have carved out a pretty sturdy niche in monstrous sounding rock. When played earnestly, as exhibited herein, it’s hard to ignore the appeal of music this infectious. THE STEREO certainly have something cool going on.

Fueled By Ramen

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