Before even unwrapping the plastic from the brand new Shirock CD, “Everything Burns,” the chic looking CD cover caught my attention, no doubt. Hoping that the music would live up to the appearance, Shirock’s new album sounds very mainstream and fits nicely with what is being played on the radio.
After a quick listen, it is clear that there is some raw talent among the five-person group. Both Chuck and Pap Shirock carry the band with the vocals. Contrary to the ever-popular trend of bands featuring other artists in their songs to get some variety, this male/female duo is refreshing and their pure voices blend beautifully.
However, I always look for quality lyrics in music, and I think this is where Shirock falls flat. Simply put, the lyrics were not catchy enough for me. I often found myself listening to the instrumentation instead and zoning out at the lyrics.
Along with the drab lyrics, a majority of their songs sounded similar to me and were very forgettable. Though because of that, it seems to me that Shirock has developed a bit of their own style and presence in their music.
While listening I hear hints of U2, one band that Shirock considers an influence, based on the vocals and powerful gutair chords.
Although some of the songs blended together for me, the first track, “New Solution,” stands out to me. With a more driving tempo, prominent vocals and edge-rock feeling, it kept me the most interested and would probably be the only song I’d consider listening to on repeat.
The title song “Everything Burns” (which includes a one-minute introduction track that is completely unnecessary) is about twice as long as it should be, and had me listening more to the instrumentation than the lyrics that seemed to be filled with lots of deep meaning that I just couldn’t comprehend in one listen.
It is definitely hard for me to come up with a consensus on Shirock’s “Everything Burns.” Should I recommend you to buy it? It’s up in the air.
It’s clear that a lot of money was pushed into the design of the CD, so if I saw the album sitting on a store shelf I may be more inclined to pick it up. If you’re a U2 or Kings of Leon fan, I think their music styles are similar with a ‘fresh rock’ sound and this CD is probably worth purchasing.