We hear of the plight facing NYC-based group Miss Velvet and The Blue Wolf all too well these days. Prepping for their much-anticipated summer 2020 tour, the group had all the momentum necessary for a killer run of shows – only to have their dreams dashed by the pandemic. There’s a silver lining to their story – the band had filmed their rehearsal of single LAUNCH from their 2019 album Feed The Wolf, and decided to turn the footage into a music video. It’s no replacement for a genuine live show, but it gives incredible insight into the energy, passion, and talent this rock group brings to the table.
As the video was filmed during a real rehearsal, the authenticity from the band shines through almost instantly. It opens on Miss Velvet herself strolling through dressing room hallways over the track’s 70s-esque intro, quickly fading into the rest of the band in their element, warming themselves up as the track begins its slow build.
But when the beat kicks in, the energy level in this track jumps up immediately and it continues to rise for the majority of the track. We’re treated to smoky, gritty, true powerhouse vocals from Miss Velvet over the thumping bassline, slowly integrating the rest of the band on a smoky, hazy stage. It’s a great symbolic choice for the track, as the fog effects mirror the psychedelic tones that come and go throughout its duration.
The band really hits their stride at 1:30, where one of the track’s main melodic riffs makes its first appearance and the group ventures into hard rock territory. With flashes of swinging hair and full-body momentum from every band member, they collectively don’t miss a single note. Miss Velvet‘s face is so expressive throughout this intense part of the song, really driving home the passion she has for their music and making it all the more powerful.
The return to the smoother tones from the intro around the three-minute mark really helps to break up the song, as it’s quite the lengthy number at 6:20. But this respite from the heaviness is a welcome find, and really helps to cement the retro feel this track has – plenty of 70s and 80s influence, but equally plenty of their own flair that keeps their sound fresh and invigorating.
If this track and video performance of it are any indicators of what a live show from Miss Velvet and The Blue Wolf is like, they’re a group not to miss when the entertainment world starts heading back in a normal direction. Strong and enrapturing vocals, an incredibly tight rhythm section, the bright and unexpected inclusion of horns near the end of the track, and the unforgettable, contagious energy from every member of this band – these are the things that put this group on our “must see” list. Good news – a new album and tour are in the works for 2021. Watch the music video for LAUNCH below, and we bet we’ll be seeing you in the audience at their next show too.
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BELOW: Listen to LAUNCH and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Miss Velvet and The Blue Wolf by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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