FABRYKA INDUSTRIAL ROCK & METAL ENCYCLOPEDIA

Katarzyna NINa Górnisiewicz | Detailed or mini-review submissions: song, EP/album | Suggest an artist

Veilside - Along the Way (song review) |This Time EP, Island Def Jam Digital Distribution, 2012|

Veilside was established in 2006 r. and has since released two EPs – their debut Chapter One (2008) and most recent released This Time (2012) which was produced by Chuck Alkazian. There are five musicians who comprise this Chicago based band. The present line-up includes Tony Engel (lead vocals), Mo Ismail (guitars), Russ Odean (guitars), Bob "Cabo" Hilton (bass) and Ron Thomas (drums). They admit they are inspired by all sorts of music ranging from 70's classical rock, through 80's metal sub-genres to 90's rock, but they don't oppose listening to mainstream music on the radio.

This Time brings six hard rock songs which includes a ballad called "Along the Way". The song has no specific intro, but has been composed to begin with a vocal part instead. The verses are based on classical guitar playing and Tony's strong, solid voice which seems to be a great match to any style of rock and metal music. Tony started his music career as a drummer, however it seems that being a band leader suits him better so far and he enjoys the role. The choruses of this track explode with a full rock sound. Intelligent and stimulating guitar riffs etch the ears with a counterpoint duo by Russ and Mo that bring fresh harmony to compliment Ron's drum beats as well as Bob's bass lines which are matched to the song arrangements extremely well. These musicians cooperate together and display a solid sense of professionalism behind the music.

"Along the Way" is a composition that is both harmonic and melodic. The track is easily memorable due to repetitive hooks, yet not monotone in structure which makes its potential as a hit formidable. The song emulates the spirit of rock and grunge music that is reminiscent of Pearl Jam, REM, Silverchair, Bush, Nickelback, Seven Mary Three, Fuel, Soundgarden or 3 Doors Down. Fans of Veilside should definitely encourage the band to shoot a video for the song to give it an opportunity for even better on-line exposure.

Veilside takes part in various interviews, visits NAMM and posts cool contests periodically on their social networks (like "How many guitars can you see in this picture?") to hold the attention of their fans in-between recording upcoming new releases. The musicians are great supporters of children's charities and also host the annual Breaking the Silence autism benefit show. This band plays a lot of gigs, so be sure to check them out live because according to them, you just may meet that 'someone special' at a Veilside show.

(Katarzyna 'NINa' Górnisiewicz, Fabryka Magazine, March 14th, 2012. Proofreading: Scott M. Owens)