From the first “wah-wah-ing” guitar notes and speaker-bouncing, room-drenching delay, one realizes the latest single from OBLIVEA – “Deep Inside” – isn’t the stuff of post-adolescent neo-punk – this is driving, unapologetic rock and roll.
Released through Bongo Boy Records – the band’s stalwart and supportive label – “Deep Inside” brings the angst, and does so with a pinch of fury.
Vocalist (and guitarist) Ben Kyle sings with a subtle rasp reminiscent of Stone Temple Pilots’ late (and pretty great) frontman, Scott Weiland. Kyle certainly has his own unique vocal characteristics, but there’s an immediately noticeable similarity.
Did I mention this song is guitar-driven? I think there may be two or three (or eight?) electric guitars creating a subtly roaring ambience; it kicks in, drives hard, and then in places, restrains one of its colliding voices. And during those moments, the groove finds space, and the nuance of Kyle’s performance becomes more audible.
Speaking of groove, drummer James Sparks and bassist Ben Vorhees keep the song forceful and focused as Kyle and additional guitarist Luis Guaman continue strumming a sonic, six-string sound blanket.
“Deep Inside” is certainly a testimony to one’s inner (and particularly fragile) state. Kyle’s throaty, impassioned acknowledgment (“I’m broken inside”) doesn’t require hours of philosophical extrapolation – Kyle is emotionally shattered, and he’s absolutely had it. So, there’s an anger to the delivery, which means intolerance, and therefore, a desire to change.
If you’re looking for something raw, candid, and utterly rock and roll, “Deep Inside” is indeed your fist–clenching ticket.
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BELOW: Listen to “Deep Inside” from OBLIVEA, and check out their social media. Please support OBLIVEA by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
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