by Deb Rao
Staff Writer —
California rock band Venrez has just wrapped up a very successful tour with Fuel. Comprised of Steven Berez aka Venrez, Jason Womack on guitar, Alex Kane on guitar, Ed Davis on drums, and Michael Bradford on bass. Venrez is gearing up for a February 28th release of Sell The Lie. Venrez has a very classic rock sound. After listening to the album in full, Venrez’ vocals remind one of Zakk Wylde. Actually, the guitar playing on Sell The Lie sounds like Concrete Jungle, in a good way!
Opening track, “Karma” sets the tone for the hard driving classic rock sound. With lyrics that say, “Some deeds never go away, Destined to follow you one day.” It has that underlying message; you always reap what you sow. “Yesterday Has Gone” is a catchy song with driving melodies. One thing about this album is the lyrics. They make you stop, listen and think. “Melting “has a slower acoustical vibe about death. The last chorus has a Beatles hook reminiscent of “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds.”
As for the Alice In Chains reference, “Insanity” and “Ants And Sand” have that driving grunge guitar appeal. The title track Sell The Lie is the most commercial song on the album. It deals with the agony of war. One of the most interesting tracks on the album is the remake of Blind Faith’s “Can’t Find My way Home.”
Overall, Sell The Lie by Venrez has a huge classic guitar sound that is infectious. Sell The Lie can be purchased on itunes or the band’s website at www.venreztheband.com.
Genre: Classic Rock
Band Members:
Steven Berez – Venrez
Jason Womack – Guitar
Alex Kane – Guitar
Michael Bradford – Bass
Ed Davis – Drums
Track Listing:
l. Karma
2. Yesterday Has Gone
3. Insanity
4. Melting
5. Ants And Sand
6. Sell The Lie
7. Unplanned Fate
8. Can’t Find My Way Home
9. Messenger
10. My Only Light
Label: Sony Red
Hardrock Haven Rating: 8/10
