MUSICIANSHIP:
WHERESBRETT Transmit a big, full sound for a trio. Bandleader Dearth Plays
Double duty as front man and lead guitarist. While his vocals are competent,
it is his guitar playing that shines. Dearth's easy transition from power
chords to energetic and tight riffs is impressive. Bassist Hammer and
drummer Shaw are no slouches either. Hammer thumps melodiously and assists
Dearth with back up vocals. Shaw is a skilled and polished drummer who plays
aggressively and with flamboyance.
THE PLAYERS: Brett Dearth, lead vocals, lead guitar; Chris Hammer bass, backup vocals; Tiger Shaw, drums.
MATERIAL: "Party Band" may be the best description of WHERESBRETT. These guys serve classic blues-based rock. An assortment of influences can be heard in the material. Which includes Cheap Trick, ZZ Top and Van Halen. Stand out songs in the set are the commercial and catchy "Always" and "Diamond Rings". Both of which have infectious guitar riffs atop power chords, cool harmonies and thunderous backbeats.
PERFORMANCE: No one could have accused WHERESBRETT of a lackluster performance on this evening. From the moment these musicians took the stage the performance level was at 11 on the Richter scale. Dearth jumped about the stage. As he and Hammer displayed genuine camaraderie with each other. Even while tucked away in the back, Shaw made his presence known with his Raw energy, enthusiasm, and stylish technical performance. Dearth and Hammer both played to the crowd the entire show and the audience cheered them on.
SUMMARY: With a fun and straight forward approach to music, WHERESBRETT can be summed up as a good, old-fashioned, Rock and Roll Band. In fact, anyone who longs for the days when bands like ZZ Top and Van Halen dominated the scene should give this act a shot. Anne O'Neary
Music Connection Magazine
10/09/06 to 10/22/06