"This release definitely solidifies Valley’s abilities to give fans a new angle of what they are capable of."
-
Must Listen
Review by Magda Knyszynski
Valley is giving listeners the EP of the summer with Maybe Side B. Consisting of Michael Brandolino (guitar), Rob Laska (vocals/guitar) , Karah James (drums) and Alex DiMauro (bass), Valley is bound to attract even more attention with the follow-up to their first EP, Maybe Side A. Aptly titled, Maybe Side B, the new record gives listeners another taste of what is to come. The EP contains 6 tracks, the perfect amount to keep the listener hooked and wanting more. Maybe Side B is full of punchy drums and catchy hooks that easily get stuck in your head. This release definitely solidifies Valley’s abilities to give fans a new angle of what they are capable of.
Maybe Side B begins with the guitar heavy “A Phone Call In Amsterdam” and the punchy beat that carries throughout the rest of the EP. Laska’s harmonious vocals add a dreamy vibe to the track, transporting the listener into what would make a perfect movie score. The breakdown in the song perfectly slows with the lyrics,“We’re such a rolling wave, So I just roll away, But you’re a really fast car to chase” where Laska’s vocals are the main focus. Almost immediately, the beat picks back up, drawing the listener into the skilled guitar and synth mix that fades out, coincidentally as the last lyrics are “Till it all fades out.”
The intro for “Boys and Girls” is mesmerizing as the piano calmly sets the tone for the song, overlapping the synth elements. The slow piano draws into the phenomenal meshing of vocals of the group, accurately showing Valley’s strength in captivating their listeners. The track provides the perfect segue into the upbeat “Park Bench.”
From the beginning of the song, “Park Bench” automatically captures your attention with the unique backing synths and drum beat. The track sets itself apart as it appears as if you were at a live show; the music progressively getting louder and faster. Brandolino and DiMauro’s skills on the guitar and bass, respectively, set the tone for the track, giving a danceable quality that would translate perfectly into a live set.
Drawn in by the acoustic guitar and smooth beat, “Sports Car” automatically makes you tap your foot to the melody. Laska and James’ voices mesh perfectly for this track, riding on top of the instrumentals. The song plays on the mellow vibes found within the first EP, bridging the two records in sound.
“Nowhere Fast” highlights their vocal range to the tasteful backing of a piano. Easily the most emotional track on the EP, it definitely cuts deep. The lyrics are sensitive and full of feeling, “Sometimes I just wonder why I can’t ever be still; I’m running circles and I’m chasing the past, I’m going nowhere fast, nowhere fast.” The song highlights the depth of Valley’s lyrics, further proving that they are able to make a song that echoes real life issues.
Airy vocals open the final track of the EP with the accompaniment of old-school sounding synths. “Watery Brain” is a unique pairing of experimental synths and punchy drums that progress the track’s lyrics. While the song begins on a slower note, the end is what leaves a lasting impression. Picking up to group vocals and clever guitar riffs, the track works its way to imbed itself in the listeners mind. The songs piano fade out allow for a moment of reflection; to take in the song in its entirety.
