The Veer Union Against the Grain
by Franco Wissa
Staff Writer
While The Veer Union’s debut, Against the Grain may not cause the rock world to spin on its head banging heels, the boys do a strong job throughout each of these 12 tracks keeping the listener’s attention. Conceivably not enough to propel them into superstardom as it is pretty standard fare, or at least not yet, for this is little here that would make this a standout in today’s hard rock market.
The guitar hooks are huge and do an admirable job in keeping a good accompaniment and the guitar solos, while brief, do show a flair for the 6-string. The rhythm section is just loud enough to drive the music forward, without ever getting in the way and vocalist Crispin does a good job in his attempt to communicate with the public. Time and again it actually sounds like he is spreading a message. While his voice really isn’t that different from many a front man who can be heard today, it must be pointed out that he can sing. And does so well. The sound of the CD is crisp, and the band has done a good job in mixing a blend of both ballads and hard rockers. The lyrics come across as nothing to deep or controversial but they do get their messages across.
Comparisons to Nickleback have been mentioned, and be that as it may, it is obvious that the boys of The Veer Union have tried hard to show the rock world that they are determined, and capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with anyone. CD highlights, “Seasons,” “Youth of Yesterday,” “Final Moment,” “Where I Want to Be,” “Over Me,” and “What Have We Done,” are all examples of this.
That having been said, it is a hope however that the boys of The Veer Union break away from the pack and formulate their own sound, for there is an audible talent here – the band just needs to reach deep within themselves, and find out they are capable of doing more. Sadly a lot of bands, of both today and the past are becoming all too complacent, with each release sounding much like the previous one. And much like other bands of the same sort. Talent is one thing, but a drive to be the best is something different entirely.
While The Veer Union certainly has shown they have the talent and promise, let’s pray that a drive to be the best continues to be heard. A read of the band’s myspace page shows they came by their name from the word “Veer,” meaning “….to change direction from one course to another…” Let’s indeed wish for that, but at least it can be said that they are on the right track.
Label: Universal Records
Track Listing
Seasons
Youth of Yesterday
Over Me
Darker Side of Me
I’m Sorry
Final Moment
Better Believe It
Into Your Garden
Your Love Kills Me
I’m Breathing In
Where I Want To Be
What Have I Done
Band Members:
Crispin – vocals
Eric – guitars, vocals
Fid – guitars
Roots – bass
Neil – drums
HRH Rating: 7.5/10