Review Summary: The Power of Suggestion
That’s it, I can’t take it anymore. I just can’t keep surfing Sputnikmusic idly by knowing that a band like Sinch is being completely overlooked by the majority here. I may not be a great writer, but I truly hope I do these guys justice with what you’re about to read.
For those unfamiliar with the band, Sinch is comprised of Jamie Stem (Vocals), Tony Lannutti (Guitar, Sound design), Mike Abramson (Bass, Wurlitzer organ), Dan McFarland (Drums/Percussion) and Jay Smith (Ocular Noise Machine, Viditar), and this lineup has yet to change after 16 years of playing together. Appropriately placed in the hard rock/progressive music genres, the band has already released two LPs and is currently working on a fan funded third, but more on that later. The first LP proved to be an impressive debut while this second one, entitled “Clearing the Channel”, improves on the original in pretty much every single way.
“Unique” is a word that may be thrown around often these days but in some cases the meaning still applies. This is one of those times. Jamie Stem’s exceptional voice provides a one of a kind experience for the listener and seems to cover all ranges whether he’s singing or shouting. Generally this would be the time for me to recommend a song or two from the album to demonstrate his ability but in all honesty, I cannot. Every single track on this album is such a rare treat vocally it would be unfair of me to be selective.
Vocals aside, every other instrument used by the band is so crucial to the overall sound that you almost forget they are all separate entities. Their seamless blend, despite the multiple tempo changes, is so perfectly integrated that they become almost as unique as the singing itself. Once again it is very difficult to select a track to portray this but if I must, take a power house like “The Power of Suggestion” and then play “Sails”, a soft tune that is so smooth it’s almost angelic. Missing how the distinctly different instrumentals fit like a glove in each song should be almost impossible.
So the vocals are superb, the rest of the band sounds flawless, what about the actual lyrics? Too often have I heard bands sound fantastic but fall short due to the simplicity of their lines. Not here. Not only are the words very well delivered, they are smart, interesting and creative. Even the song titles suggest something more than your average radio band. My only criticism is that some of the songs may get old a little sooner then you first might think but that comes down to personal taste and I personally blame my repeat button.
Sadly, with everything going for them, Sinch has remained unknown to the masses and while, in a way, it adds to their charm, it certainly doesn’t add a thing to their wallets. Which is why, as mentioned earlier, their third LP is a fan funded one. With that said I urge you to at least, at the very least, give these guys a listen and judge for yourself, but I promise you won’t be disappointed if quality progressive hard rock is where your heart lies.
