obstacle course - rock

Obstacle Course

Rock
self-released; 2013

3.6 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Ryan Clark was playing acoustic shows under the moniker Obstacle Course for two years before deciding to form a band. He felt there was something from his music missing, namely other members so he decided to do some recruiting. A short time later he met up with a drummer and they recorded a three-song EP entitled Rock EP.

The title of the EP is pretty descriptive. It’s a pretty straightforward rock EP that relies on distorted guitars, organic drums and enough bass just to give a backbone to the music. The music isn't particularly innovative but if you want to hear a well-written song that tips it hats to some of the alternative acts of the 90’s than this is exactly what you should be listening to. 

The first of the three songs is called “Previous Locks” and starts with a lone acoustic guitar. Then the whole band kicks in before the first 30 seconds. Clark seems to be reflecting on free will and the choices we make as he asks the questions “What moves will you choose? What door will you walk through? What key will you use?” “Single Malt Showdown” may be talking metaphorically about regret or a specific incident. Clark sings “all of the sudden I believe / there is a reason to leave / pissing people off / it's time for this to stop / Was it a mistake / to go into that bar and tell everyone about / exactly who we are.” It is a decent song all around. They save the best for last with “The Same” as it contains some of the best guitar riffs on the album. It even contains a number of additional instruments that added to the emotional weight of the song.

I have nothing to criticize about this EP but at the same time the songs didn't knock it out of the park They were well-written songs and seem to come from the heart but sometimes they lacked a visceral energy to drive the songs. That being said if you have a knack for 90’s alternative music you should take a listen. 

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