An Opus of a Pop-Rock Record from ReeToxA
- BuzzSlayers
- 13 minutes ago
- 5 min read
The new album release from ReeToxA delves into so many genres under the rock umbrella that it's hard to put a finger on just one element that makes it so good.
Some might say it's the guitar work. The guitars are outstanding on this record, but others might say it's the songwriting.
The songwriting is really what stands out to me, and this is simply because there are songs on this record that sound like they were written in the late 1960s, while others feel like '80s hard rock bangers, and basically everything in between.
This is an album that is 26 tracks in length and spans over an hour and 20 minutes.
So, there's plenty to chew on.
The album is called Soliloquy, and it doesn't waste a lot of time starting with its first track, "REETOXA".
This is an amazing introduction to the record because it opens you up to some of the bright but edgy rock soundscapes that you're going to hear throughout its course.
You have robust choruses, heavy-handed guitars, classic riffs, and an unstoppable drive that brings with it a great sonic presence.
This track showcases some amazing guitar work, especially with this lead guitar solo that hits before the song's final choruses, and it rips, but it's also melodically based.
When it comes to the solos, the guitar work has soul.
As I said, this track opens the door for the rest of the album amazingly.
The track that immediately follows is one called "INSATIABLE", which is a catchy pop-rock single as well, but it bears in mind music from the '90s. It's got this '90s radio rock aesthetic. It's a little bit grungy, it has a flow to it, and the hook is something that bounces around in your head for hours after it's ended.
"DANCING WITH YOU" is a track that showcases a blend of what I would consider to be some pop punk, with classic rock. It's got a lot of drive to it and a little bit of a punk approach, while organs are strewn throughout the background of the song.
Not only does it add an extra layer of texture to everything, but it also gives that vintage undertone I spoke of earlier.
As the record unfolds, you hear more and more of certain aspects of classic songwriting influenced by vintage rock and roll.
"JADE EYES" is an endlessly fun single, bearing plenty more of that pop-rock and pop punk blend, with robust and boisterous guitar tone, thick choruses, and some fun effects on the vocals at times.
These are all catchy. I think that's one of the biggest attributes to the record, aside from all the character that it boasts.
There's always a great hook or chorus, a catchy guitar line, those hooks can come from either vocals or instruments, which is something I've missed in rock music for a long time, and the pop sensibility is there 100%.
I think that's important to know, simply because although songs can be edgier, heavier, softer, or more delicate, there's always this pop overcoat that makes the songs even more memorable.
Then there's songs like "ERICA AND THE STARS" which not only paint a picture in your head as the song unfolds, but deliver beautifully lush, orchestrated string sections that give you a heavy-handed, cinematic backbone.
"STARE AT THE SEA" features slide guitars and a slightly southern undertone. It may even be considered southern rock, if you will, but either way, it is a very warm song.
If there's one thing that all of this proves, it's that a lot about how this band works is diversity and welcoming different songwriting styles to the table so that they can build a record that has a huge atmosphere to it.
Whether it's pop punk, cinematic rock, or southern-toned ballads, this record has something for everybody.
"WAR KILLER" brings us back to that heavy and hard rock tonality, and sounds like something that would have been on the radio in the late '80s.
This is what I mean by diverse songwriting styles. They pull in a slew of influences to create something massive. Maybe that's why the record is 26 tracks long.
By the way, when I say that, I mean 26 songs. There are no interludes or introductions, little 30-second instrumental pieces, or anything like that. These are song after song after song, and most of them are total bangers.
It has been forever since I've heard such a display of range and rock styles, and all the while, delivering something that's got heart, personality, and a knack for storytelling.
There are going to be a lot of times throughout the record where you're paying more attention to the lyrics than anything else, while others, it's the guitar work that you're going to get picked up by.
Either way, this is certainly a big one, but I still suggest listening to the whole thing at once.
I feel like this is meant to be an experience.
All of the songs I mentioned already are great standalone singles, but listening to the full record takes you to a different place altogether.
This was a complete Soiree and rock, and you shouldn't miss out on it.
Upon listening to the record, we wanted to touch base with the band to find out exactly where this all came from.
We reached out to the main songwriter and vocalist, Jason McKee, to ask some questions.
So, while you listen to this massive opus of a rock record, have a read through our interview below.
Thanks so much for taking the time! Let's jump right into Soliloquy! This record had a range of everything from classic rock and heavy metal to pop-punk and more!
Where did this album come from and what was it about?
Before covid I was about to record my fist album but the panademic closed the whole world down. Instead of polishing my demos I lived off cigarettes and coffee with minimum sleep and started writing this second album. There are a few ideas dating back to the 90’s but most are reflecting on my life and what shaped me.
I am hearing a few different styles on this single. Who are some of your biggest musical influences?
I love nirvana, pixies, Radiohead , Elliott smith, nick cave ; all the good stuff !
Are you performing live right now?
I am doing open mics but hope to form a live band soon and go on tour.
How did this all start for you as an artist?
I started writing songs at 15 years of age in 1995 and it’s been my passion ever since.
What are you performing on the record?
I wrote all lyrics and sing on all of the tracks. I did give some of the guitar ideas on akoura and insatiable.
Did you work with a producer on this album, or was this all you?
Simon Moro was my producer he is like a brother to me. He pushed me so hard but he asks nothing of what he wouldn’t do to himself. I think we both nearly went crazy by the end.
What's next for you? Working on more new releases?
I am polishing my third album but I’m very keen to hit the Melbourne and Australia live scene. We also have so much momentum overseas.
What kind of advice would you give to other up and coming bands or artists trying to get heard?
Stop procrastinating ! Drop that track !
What would you say people can expect to hear on this release?
I would say pour your favorite beverage, put on your best headphones and immerse yourself in every emotion possible.
Before we go, what would you want to express to fans of the music?
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making my dreams come through.
Comments