Album Review/Alt Rock : Maverick Smith’s ‘With Friends and Imperfections’
Maverick Smith is the project of Sean Boynes along with his Grammy-winning, world-class icon artists. Together, they demonstrate a passion for rock that is unlike anything you might have seen in the 21st century. Starting from classic rock frames, journeying through folk, Americana, rock n roll, hard rock, indie rock and everything in between, they shape the alternative plane with unique and novel interpretations. You’ll probably catch a glimpse of 20th century favorites, some classic bands that then roll on from nostalgia to the new. Their album, ‘With Friends and Imperfections’ introduces the band extensively. It showcases the journey, growth, and evolution of the artists and their styles and skills; both individually and collectively.
Speaking to the album’s thematic roots, Sean says, “With Friends and Imperfections is a celebration of the imperfect beauty of true musicianship.” A holistic statement that only gains in perspective and wisdom with each passing track of the collection. ‘Holding On’ opens the album; its warm, feel-good, melodic rhythm opens up like a sunset horizon. There is that classic rock flush that flares up with specks of blues, rustic Americana, and a touch of rock n roll.
It’s a beautiful parallel flow with symmetric and asymmetric melody/rhythm structures. We see similar effusions in ‘Through This Tonight’ and ‘Thinking of You’. That comfort of melodic rock with mellow riffs and basslines, the intricacy of piano keys lifting across the soundscape, driving a sense of positivity and musical harmony.
Tracks like ‘Do I?’ is a melodic rock creation, but it is built up with orchestral structures that form grand instrumental awnings that tie into the contemplative theme of the song. ‘Let’s Leave’ and ‘Break My Heart’ are darker, more deeper compositions with heavier textures and layers. The guitar work is more emphatic, the vocals more sombre and the beats follows suit. In the former; the sentiment comes out with an alternative spark. However in the latter, we see a more emo-folk dimension. But in both compositions, you’ll see a highland folk tangent, blended in with the rock. The bagpipes in the latter soundscape are especially striking.
‘Spookshow’ is edgy with that late 80s and early 90s indie rock. Just in time for Halloween, it is an instant favorite.‘Dirty Teeth carries this ethos more playfully, and with an Americana jangle. ‘Health and Politics’ forms in a similar vein, but with a more pronounced rock n roll that will steal you away. Listen Now!
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The album is available for streaming on popular sites like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music!
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