Jerzey Street Band | Haigy’s Girl
by Joe Mis
Staff Writer
Hailing from Manchester, UK but with a strong affection for American blues/classic rock, country, and gospel, the Jerzey Street Band is ramping up for the Fall 2011 release of their next full length album by dropping a double A-side single in mid-August. Almost storyteller rock in the vein of Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen, The Jerzey Street Band is a breath of fresh air in a rock marketplace that sometimes takes itself too seriously. They seem to genuinely enjoy what they are doing, and it shows.
Melding many British influences with American classic rock overtones, the JSB produces what they call “freight train rock” – an apt description for their simple and unpretentious style of rock. Being a seven piece outfit, the JSB has a naturally full and complete sound, and the variety of instruments used show them to be a talented band with great potential for killer live performances. The instrumental depth means they do not have to rely on and fancy studio trickery to make their music shine. Having built a loyal following with their 2009 self-titled debut, The Jerzey Street Band is ready to reach for a much larger audience, and Haigy’s Girl is the ideal tease.
“Haigy’s Girl” is a nice rolling tune with a great mid-tempo rock beat, excellent musicianship, catchy hooks, a full sound and solid vocal performances. “Wasting Time” is a great acoustic number that combines blues rock with some enthusiastic hand claps, resulting an almost bluegrass feel. Great vocal harmonies make this one a winner.
While it may be difficult to judge the band’s true depth by a two song release, there is no doubt that any fan of old school blues rock will enjoy The Jerzey Street Band. Anyone who is into the singer-storyteller genre should not only enjoy this teaser release, and more than likely will be willing to grab the full length album entitled Breaking Radio Silence when it is released in the fall.
Fans of Counting Crows, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty will not be disappointed.
Genre: Classic Rock
Band:
Dave Wrobel (Lead Vocals & Guitars)
Neil Wrobel (Guitars)
Roger Crombie (Guitars)
Mat O’Neill (Bass, Vocals & Harmonica)
Keith Ashworth (Pedal Steel Guitar & Dobro)
Steve Priest (Keyboards)
Mike Weaver (Drums & Vocals)
Track Listing:
1. Haigy’s Girl
2. Wasting Time
Label: Genepool
Website: www.jerzeystreetband.com
Hardrock Haven rating: 8/10