Eight Oh Eight Four's debut album was produced back in 1987 by Hirsh (New England) Gardner, whose burgeoning reputation as a producer led to him being the first choice call for many up and coming bands on the USA's North Eastern seaboard around that time. Three albums later the band have the confidence and the nous to produce themselves. That self assurance has also tracked through to the band's sound. '
The Last great Train' shows a degree of versatility and maturity lacked by more experienced bands in Eight Oh Eight Four's peer group.
What it lacks though is melodic strength in depth. In the main, the band's performances overcome this obstacle, but they fall at the occasional hurdle.
'Breath' is a surefooted opener that sets out the band's stall with a flourish of guitars and a strong taste of American blue collar rock.
'Alright' is reminiscent of
Tyketto's acoustic guitar based 'Strength In Numbers' album, as is the title track. In fact vocalist Randy Smith frequently recalls Danny Vaughn. His voice has that same edge, creating that same sense of anticipation, projecting that same note of urgency and excitement that lifted
Waysted and
Tyketto several notches above the rest.
The rhythmic
'Shopping List' is a lyrical feast. The band cook up a great song around a familiar theme, building from a quirky, percussive start to a powerful Cream-like crescendo before drawing to a premature close.
'Sometimes' takes too long to go nowhere.
'Without You' and
'Home' successfully revisit the
Tyketto acoustic formula, whereas
'Come to Me' shows originality but lacks a memorable melody. And so it goes on. Some songs hit the mark, others fall short, often not by much, but enough to make the difference.
'The Last Great Train' may not go the distance, but it's an interesting if not always fulfilling journey. There's clearly a great album in this band. Next time I hope.
Written by
Brian Friday, May 5, 2006
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