Canto, exhibit a refreshing originality and determination on their debut album “HA HA HA.” Canto consist of three brothers all under the age of 20; Seamus Blackwell (Vocals, Guitar), Aidan Blackwell (Bass) and David Blackwell (Drums), who each showcase a talent beyond their years on this debut release.
Their music is littered with influences from rock music of the 1960’s, 70’s, and ‘80’s, like Led Zeppelin, and The Who; to Stevie Ray Vaughn and The Clash, but remains wildly infused with a modern day sound like, The Walkmen, The Black Keys and Jack White. “HA HA HA” showcases energetic guitar-driven rock, and understated psychedelic undertones, creating an infectious gritty alt-rock signature sound of their own. Lead vocalist and left-handed guitarist Seamus Blackwell has a gutsy wail of a voice, lending itself easily to pounding riffs and intelligent instrumentations that are expertly crafted with, David and Aidan on each of the ten tracks that make up “HA HA HA”
On the lead single “Farewell Well Well”, Seamus Blackwell shines with a stark vocal prowess, howling out over a full-throttled, pedal-squashing thrust, with a flourish of blues guitar riffs and pounding drums to carry it forward at a rapid pace, the energy changing between reflective and dramatically charged outrage. The electric guitar has a scorching and mystic sound that seems to glitter against the back drop of the dizzying drums, making this single one in which each band member’s talents are showcased effortlessly. “Cardigan Sweater” is another electrifying standout track, with a bouncy rock feel that’s layered over gritty guitar and unpolished magnetic vocals. The instrumentation progresses from relatively subdued to heavy and full, commanding the listener with its glittering summer-infused melodic guitar riffs. The track “Griseous” is a slow building rock song, sparse at first with the tumbling drums nudging it along until it’s loud and intense break-through, heightened by the back-and-forth with the electric guitar solo. It culminates in an epic, reverberating finish that is rousing and anthemic, captivating until the very last note. “In The Sun” is backed by an upbeat, fresh feel. It’s a moment of sweetness and delicacy that still has Canto’s signature contrast between subdued and high-energy anticipation.
Canto’s debut album “HA HA HA” is musically exploratory, pulling you in all different directions, powered by light-injecting melodies that are both tranquil and immersive awash in vocals and guitar untouched by modernity. The Blackwell brothers showcase an artistic advancement far beyond their age on a stunning original debut album that radiates their talent from opening note to finish.
Canto’s Links:
http://cantotheband.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Canto/199957743354850
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Canto/199957743354850
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