Jersey natives Eastern Anchors have a new contemporary release titled Drunken Arts And Pure Sciences. The local group incorporates new-age alternative influences into their signature ‘90s-esque sound. Opening the album is “Crown Vic,” a simple rock song that seems to have branched from the same tree as The Smashing Pumpkins’ “1979.” “Leading With Your Right” is an equally catchy tune and after only a few repeats, the listener might find that they are quietly humming along. The guitar parts of “Herzog, Help Me” draw parallels with the sonic imprint of the early Foo Fighters. They guitars are, once again, basic, but memorable.
This band is a textured fusion of every ‘90s rock band that there ever was with the vocals of today’s youthful musicians. Singers Walter Greene and Dave Urbano do not possess an exceptional vocal range, but do maintain control of their pitch as well as the knowledge of their own sonic limits. “Central, Ohi” has a lead line that sticks to the memory like glue. The number is just under a minute and a half long, but features one of the tastiest riffs on the record. All around, the structure of “Clawhammer Man” may be the strongest song because every aspect, including vocals, guitar parts, and the ending’s instrumental piece, are well done. Last of all, “James The Viking,” the closing number, unfurls with upbeat guitar playing, an intricate solo, and an overall entertaining vibe. With the exception of for the final track, most of these songs are short, sweet, and to the point. The guitars are grungy and the vocals are catchy, but even within the confines of these familiar terms, Eastern Anchors are exploring new territories. After all 11 tracks, Drunken Arts And Pure Sciences is a stone that could use some polishing, but is still a piece that can carry its own weight.
In A Word: Bare
