The Space Turtles is an alternative rock trio from Long Island. Their main influences are Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Black Keys and Spoon. Having had plenty of experience with recording and touring, they put out their first EP, Tough Call, late last year, and are working on further developing their fanbase.
When discussing the recording process, the band members say that “Tough Call was recorded as separate performances of each instrument.” They recorded drums at Vudu Studios with all sorts of mics and presets, and everything else with their own gear. I suppose that explains why the drums sound so crisp throughout this debut EP. Bassist Andrew Rizzo mixed the EP in Protools, whereas Michael Fossenkemper mastered each of its six tracks. Beginning with some taut low end and “bum-bum-bum”’s, “Young At Heart” expresses a rather nice sentiment, which is that age should be determined by how you live your life rather than how old you are. It sounds very much like Red Hot Chili Peppers. Furthermore, it is a catchy song being sung by an animated vocalist. “Ghost Plans” is a step up from “Young At Heart” in that it displays more emotion than the previous cut. The main vocal hook with its staccato delivery is certainly a good one. Maybe this song should be compared to the danceable post-punk revival style of The Strokes? I must admit that it’s also intriguing how it’s called “Ghost Plans” and not “Those Plans.” Lyrically, “Live It Large” reminds me of the hit single, “Beverly Hills,” by Weezer. Musically, though, the electric garage rock riff sounds like the soundtrack to someone strutting down the block while wearing shades at night. Class this under the long list of songs about aspiring to be famous a la “Rockstar” by Nickelback, only not quite as corny. “Hate How I Love You” is probably the poppiest, most reggae-inflected song here. It’s basically how Maroon 5 would sound if their production was much subtler. “Get It,” sonically, is very much like funk-garage rock, as The Space Turtles puts it. The verses are enjoyable, and the bass and guitar interplay is strong on this second to last track. However, the biggest surprise on the EP is undoubtedly “Run Away,” a tender tune about escaping the world with someone, presumably a love interest. I also appreciate the bridge that lists off all the different outdoor activities these people want to do together. The clean electric guitars here are more layered than before, giving this closer somewhat of a spacey vibe. It’s refreshing to hear something slightly different. Overall, on The Space Turtles’ debut offering, Tough Call, there are quite a few good moments scattered throughout. Most of them are related to the vocals and the catchy melodies, but the drums sound nice and clean, and there are some times where the guitar does some interesting things, too. I have a feeling that their next outing will be even better. Recommended.
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