American Minor is an interesting band that possesses the ability to blend old sounds with new, keeping the music fresh and diverse. Sometimes you might think you're hearing Jet (like in 'Walk On'), AC/DC, or Oasis; while other times you're hearing what's reminiscent of Tom Petty ('Break', 'Cheaters & Non-Believers'), The Black Crowes ('Mr. Queen', 'Change'), or even the untreated rawness of Graham Parker and Willy DeVille (Don't Jump The Gun). No matter how you look at it, the West Virginian hard rock quintet has a sound that's unrefined and real. Their hard driving, guitar-stinging style is American in nature (though a British influence isn't entirely imperceptible either), as the influence of southern boogie rock, blues, and unrefined earthiness is omnipresent.

Rob McCutcheon's voice is coarse and lazy, yet extremely soulful. It's comparable to that of Chris Robinson and Tom Petty, though a youthful aspect shines in a fresh and energetic light. Listen closely and you'll hear some Paul Rogers in there, too. Rob immediately pours it on in the opener, 'Rock On'. The guitars enter with frothy crunch, and seethe into tasteful lead riffs matched only with raw rhythmic power. In fact, this is the atmosphere throughout the whole CD. The riffs in 'Buffalo Creek' evoke a Leslie West style. 'Shine' is in that Mountain vein as well. Guitarists Bud Carroll and Josh Gragg often exert tasty runs and arrangements in both a Crowes and Faces mode. The music is loud, rockin', and up-front.

This CD is proof that something real good can happen when gifted young musicians get together and put forth a sound that evokes some of the greatest vintage rock ever released. These guys did their homework. American Minor is fine rock and roll, a breath of fresh air combined with yesteryear's pleasant aromas. It's a must have for lovers of down-to-earth southern, soulful rock. Break out the Jack Daniels and crank up the volume to take full advantage of this fresh yet vintage sound.

American Minor
1. Walk On

2. Break

3. Cheaters & Non-Believers

4. Mr. Queen

5. Don't Jump The Gun

6. Buffalo Creek

7. Shine

8. All My Time

9. Change

10. One Last Supper

11. Sleepwalking

American Minor
Rob McCutcheon - vocals
Bud Carroll - guitar
Josh Gragg - guitar
Bruno - bass
Josh Knox - drums

Links
American Minor
American Minor on Amazon.com
Chrysalis Records