Blackjack Joker - EP

“Today, music has taken a turn for the worst. Back in the 70’s and 80’s when musical giants roamed our planet, such as Led Zeppelin and Iron Maiden, it was all about writing music, with lyrics that actually meant something”. These words from promising unsigned band Blackjack Joker will ring true in any rock fans ears, and they are here to bring those days back.

Blackjack Joker are a hard rock band, who intend to change things with the music and style that they want to play; “not what the money wants them to play”. A very determined group, the quartet intends to rock their way to the attention of the people. They have a different, classic style of sound that stands out against the large crop of similar sounding indie bands. Blackjack Joker are a “blast from the past”.

The foursome, who at the age of 15 play some outstandingly mature music, hail from Bromsgrove in Worcestershire. Formed in March 2007, the group have just released their first EP ‘She’s Electri’; a 4 track CD containing 14 minutes of epic rock ‘n’ roll. Lead singer Lawrence Taylor fronts the unit on lead guitar, accompanied by rhythm guitarist Harry Hudson. Completing the line up is bassist Karey Mogg and drummer Ash Picken.

The EP kicks off with the self-titled ‘She’s Electric’, a fast paced, hot cauldron of rock ‘n’ roll. The track begins with an anticipatory build up of heavy scratching covered by a small introductory solo. It seems like the deep breath before the plunge, as the song drops into a frenzy of heavy, wild rock. Taylor comes in on the line “Sometimes I wish I wasn’t myself, sometimes I wish I was someone else”, with his distinctive, almost unique voice. His voice almost oozes the words in a fashion that can only be described as the epitome of cool. It seems to be calm and elegant, duly unbothered at having to contend with the fast-paced rock going on behind him. The contents of the song match its title in the fact that it is high voltage and lively reminiscent of classic 70’s rock. The pace of the song is complimented by impressive, intricate pieces of guitar work as Taylor collaborates with Hudson before launching into his own solo.

Second track ‘Sunrise’ maintains the classic rock sound that the band have created, whilst comfortably incorporating the topic of loving a woman. Through this theme, the band shows a more sensitive approach through the rock ‘n’ roll element. Taylor tells a story of desiring a certain lady, whilst being accompanied by a quick, lighter sound from Hudson’s guitar. This song indicates a distinct quality of Blackjack Joker; the ability to change tone and go from a heavier sound to general alternative rock. Midway through Sunrise the song builds into a constant pace, before a smooth transition into a calmer period sees Taylor flow into the words “I really love you believe me, your beauty is so kind, and I don’t mind, what it takes, what it takes to love you”.  The combination of the calm in the storm and heartfelt lyrics allows him to showcase his fascinating style as the light drumming and slow, distorted guitar provided by Picken and Hudson soothes the tone. A distinctly catchy tune, this is definitely a must listen to.

‘Losin’ It’ is a brilliant track that starts off with Hudson’s rhythm guitar’s opening chords climaxing each time with a crash of Pickens drums and Taylors guitar. As the two guitars have a frantic guitar duel to open the song, a feel of excitement begins as the energy within the track comes to life. Full of dark sounds enhanced by Mogg’s bass and intermittently broken up by thrashes of distorted guitar, Blackjack Joker have created a song designed to capture pure energy. Wonderful solo’s are launched that really add the rock ‘n’ roll feel as it is a pleasure to hear Taylors guitar screech and groan as it reaches the heights before his handler coolly executes it with precision.

The final track on the band’s debut EP is ‘Start Smilin’’, a track that delivers a stinging attack on a character with what seems to be an oversized ego. Again the track maintains the rock feel as Taylor delivers “Do you like it, being that bad? That you’re too damn good for the ones you had”.  The witty lyrics, instantly likeable and catchy, are overshadowed by yet another example of the amazing talent within the band. As Picken comfortably dictates the pace, lead guitarist Taylor flies into yet more whirlwind solo’s that relieve the song of the slightly monotonous yet still entertaining rhythm.

Blackjack Joker are definitely a band with a bright future. Considering the members of the band are only 15 years old, the talent and maturity shown in their music talent is amazing. This EP shows an insight into a young band full of promise with melodic mature work to follow with even better music. While their musical ability cannot be disputed, the only negative aspect is that sometimes the bands lyrics contain an element of simplicity. More complex lyrics would really take the band to another level, but given their youth this will only come as they grow and mature as a unit. That said, given that this is the bands first EP it is one of substantial quality, a thoroughly enjoyable listen.

Rating: 8/10

www.myspace.com/blackjackjokerband

By Alex Read

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