Near November is a band from Blacksburg, Virginia comprised of Kody McVey (vocals), Nick Ferra (guitar), Christoph Opitz (drums) and Carlos Marinkovic (bass). The band formed in 2013 and played covers for about two years. In 2015 the band started writing original material. They recently released On Certain Sundays which is a twelve-song album.
The band has a blue collar working man alternative sound to them at times. I was reminded of the band The Wrens as well as number of other bands from the ’90s. Having grown up in this era this was a sound I was happy to re-visit. They open with “Drive” which is the band at their best. It’s fun and catchy indie rock. The melodies are easy to appreciate and the lyrics are relatable. It’s a great bar song. “Gone Away” starts with a somewhat dated sounding guitar solo which slides into a catchy verse. This song is solid all around and gravitated towards the lead vocals. “The Legend of the flying Dutchman” was a highlight. The bass work here was notable. “One of a kind” was a single worthy ’9’s alternative jam while “Loco” was sung in Spanish. The ride continues with catchy songs like “Falalalalalala.” “Tranquility” was certainly the most nostalgic and reflective song that is atmospheric and strives for epic heights. “November” is also reflective but not in a cosmic way like “Tranquility.” “Deja Vu” gets back into bar room ’90s ballads. They slow it down a bit more with “Dezi says” before rocking out with “Staring at the sky” and closing with the more melancholy and reflective “Dream in between.” Overall, the music excels most when the band isn’t taking itself too seriously. Songs like “Drive” and ““The Legend of the flying Dutchman” seemed to be where the band thrived. That being said the album was a good listen from beginning to end. Recommended.
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