I first saw Half Step Down (HSD) at a pub gig @ DV8, CP waay back in 2006 and was instantly a fan. They play a mix of classic rock and blues with some elements of funk. Well, they have a unique sound. They really like to mix and match. Their piano player (Shiv Lamba) adds a different flavour to their songs and really spices up their already tight rhythm sections. Some of their songs have a distinct "Indian" sound to them. Indian rock can be best exemplified by this band. Without going into too much fusion, Half Step Down best characterizes how an "Indian" band sounds like. Anyways, their setlist is usually mix of high energy OCs and covers which normally no other band performs. I have heard them churn out awesome renditions of Jet's - Are you gonna be my girl, STP's - Plush and even Lynyrd Skynrd's Sweet Home Alabama.
Anyways, they had released their debut album - Overtures in Outer space last year I think. I bought their CD when I went for GIR this year...and I'm really impressed. I'm in love with the title. Overtures in Outer space is a sweet album. Its an awesome mixed bag of songs.
Working Hour
It starts with a nice catchy bluesy riff before Dhaval comes in with his strong vocals. "Another 9 to 6, thank you very much I'll give that a skip. Donning suits and ties, why do these mornings exist?" Something which we can all relate too..esp on mondays! It has a nice li'l rhythm section in the middle and a catchy chorus.
Not for Sale
After a small slow melodic intro, the rhythm guitar churns out this nice li'l riff which would get your feet tapping. The drums take over and creates this happy happy atmosphere around you. Dhaval voice is amazing...and has a hint of a classical flavour to it. This song has a very "indian" feel to it. The solo and the breakdown sounds reminiscent of Indian ocean. I like it though. Very high energy and a peppy track.
Knocking at the back of my head
It starts off in a really cool manner with the bass going pummm...baaaap...taaaoon waaaon waaaon...pummm baaaap! .. :) .. well its really cool and I had no other way to describe it! I had heard this song loads of time. They play it every time during their gig. Its a nice li'l roller coaster of a song with the pace keeping on changing. Its a fun track..lively and brings a smile to your face.
Girl Not Guitar
"Coz someday I'll be a big big star. And remember baby, that your're just my Girl and not my Guitar!" \m/ .. how cant you like this song! Awesome song to put off your girlfriend when she gets too irritating to handle :)
UKJ-18
The best track on the album for me. Its like a high energy ball. It reminds me of Zero. Really catchy and I swear you cant keep yourself from swaying to the music. It has a nice melodic bluesy solo and the chorus transcends the song to awesome newer levels of...well..awesomeness \m/
Circles
Circles is a different track musically. Its..I dunno...it has everything in it. It has elements of electronic, the chorus is full on rock and roll and it has these nice li'l piano interludes in between which gives it a classical touch. Nice mix of everything.
Roll over
Another peppy, groovy track. The piano kicks in with this awesome melodious fast crescendo of notes before the drums explode and the guitars kick in. Its a fast song and it'll make an awesome song while going for a drive or drinks :). Lyrics wise its a bit cliched. Its a break up song and it has all the elements of it..lies, deceit etc. etc. A nice song though.
Stories of the Sun
Dhaval is simply awesome on this one. Really melodious and has a very Indian rock feel to it. Its a mid tempo song and has an awesome piano solo in the middle before the chorus takes flight with "I'm leaving, I'm going home". Although I never heard this song live, but I think it would sound awesome..esp unplugged. Dhaval has a nice strong voice which really carries this song forward.
Overtures to Outer space
Awesome song to end an awesome album. Its again a roller coaster. Slow verses with a fast crunchy chorus. "Change the world..you got every power in your reach today. Change your way..you just got to find the right notes to play". A message to all those who feel lost in life and are at that helpless li'l phase where they want to quit everything and just leave their lives behind. It has awesome musical sections in between with the guitars and the piano fighting it out. Amazing song.
Overall, its a nice classic rock album. Something you can sit back and enjoy. It'll make you feel good..its a mood changer. The songs are fun and catchy and I have been listening to it for a week continuously...at work..while sleeping..while driving..and I cant get enough of it.
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