Wallace - Hubbubery

Wallace

Hubbubery
self-released; 2015

3.6 out of 5

By Andrew Westberry

One-man band Rylan Wallace Talerico produces music under the moniker Wallace, and his EP Hubbubery features an unintentionally made-up word as the record’s title. After realizing that “hubbubery” was not a real word, Wallace felt that he had no choice but to name the EP after the word he inadvertently created.

More intentionally within the record, Wallace exhibits his unconventional singing style, which fringes upon slightly melodic rapping with a tinge of Beastie Boys style. While the vocals are definitely not classical, Wallace has found a pocket and a niche in which his voice fits nicely, making for a unique aural experience. “The Same,” the first song on the EP, is the catchiest, most memorable song on the record, featuring his memorable voice relaying intriguing lyrics among a smattering of vivacious guitars and crashing cymbals and drums.

The bluesy guitar solo in the intro of “Man and Wife” accompanied by upbeat drums and bright guitars steer the album toward a more blues-driven tempo and feel. The instrumentation is unchanged from the first song, but the style is significantly different. The bluesy pattern continues in “Lady.” However, this song features more experimental motifs and complex chords than previous tracks. This song has a female vocalist, giving the song enough interesting variation as to avoid becoming tedious and repetitive.

“Monkey See, Monkey Do” is a lackluster instrumental song that barely differs in style from the previous songs on the EP. The redeeming quality comes in the last ten seconds of the tune, in a frantic ending that catches listeners off guard. Thankfully, the vocals return to the mix in “This Man” a groovy, gung-ho song that incorporates classic rock n’ roll techniques into some of the best riffs on the record.

The EP comes to a close with “Ode to the Graduates” a cynical rant set to a solid rhythm, distorted guitar and diverse dynamics. This tune harkens back to the first song on the EP; the music coming full circle over the course of the record. The extended guitar solo at the conclusion of the song brings finality to Hubbubery, a remarkable album characterized by unconventional methods that are honed to the point of sensation.

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