So, the first challengers to jump in Foo's Wok is a pop duo from Whales, specifically Wyee, New South Wales. From the looks of it a very fine beach town in South East Australia. So, please keep in mind that The Foo's favorite music is not pop, and definitely not the axillary descriptor provided on their profile - "Adult Contemporary".
That said and Foo's personal opinions layed off to the side for some coolin' - Let's start w/ the positives.
This brother band duo is very in touch with the pop sound. I mean they've nailed it; the vocal styling, the subject matter and the look. Chris Brown plays the guitar and keys and his brother Evan is the drummer. Considering that this duo was inspired to start a musical adventure in 2006, they're well on their way to becoming some well rounded musicians. But, there's plenty of time to grow and these guys are filling out their pop song with an admirable skill.
But, Foo's favorite part about this duo is the sound. The mixing is great on every song - very consistent. It's a guess but, it doesn't sound like this was a DIY operation. Either these guys have some super fabulous gear or it was mixed in a really nice studio. Foo is not a fan of the over use of the Vocoder on vocals; not that a Vocoder is a bad thing but, on the lead vocals of a chorus or hook every time in one song is not as tasteful as background and/or filler lyrics. The master is hot and clear with no distortion and steady dynamics throughout. For an unsigned band, this group has got some great first impressions.
With a number one song on a New York radio station [KISS] and a long list of news releases listed on their website, this group has got a great introduction to the US market at an early point in their career. It's clear that this group has got the cut and make of corporate or label success. The impressively shot video is good, perhaps even good enough for the genre. However, Foo Feels that perhaps parts are over the top. Such as playing instruments through the pouring rain (overdone since the 80's), and setting up in the woods without a stage or platforms or anything just throw contrast into an otherwise quality job done at home with Final Cut and a Mac.
Ok, so no major negative, Foo just sprinkled in some good critique instead.
Kotadama is headed for a nice ride with the first full album tour on the way.
And FooManChoo wishes them well!
FooStats(out of 10):
Audio Quality: 8
Originality: 3
Spicey factor: 6
Chops: 7
Total: 24
Kotadama
