2007 Album review of "The Inside"
Moses Mayfield is a five piece alternative rock band from Birmingham, Alabama. “The Inside” is their 2007 album.
Each of these songs is fully layered with rich dynamics, beauty, emotion and drive. The thick layering of multiple melodies and simultaneous rhythms set the scene for the intimately expressive vocals to saunter through and spin their tale. Although each song is a separate creation with its own arrangement, tempo, and rhythm… there is, of course, a familiar sound in each song that is unmistakably Moses Mayfield. Let me paint for you a literary picture of this album.
As I listen to these songs, I find myself being carried away in a river of sound that both subdues and sustains me. The melodic guitars play rippling chords over the rocks along the bottom… just beneath a strong, driving current created by an agile force of amazing percussion-ism and ample bass… backed by subtle, intuitive keyboards… and topped by the strong, sure and un-hurried vocals that float above the rest.
Some of the songs begin gently with a sensuously played synthesizer, beautifully simple instrumentation, and a soft voice. But, with every new layer that is added, the lazy drift that first carried me, gradually builds in strength and agility to become a powerful current of sounds… until the vocals reach their full magnificence. Some of the songs afford me the privilege of experiencing the true passion and pure perfection of shout-singing… in beautifully executed harmonies of aguish. This is supported by the handsome sounds of a strong bass, a well orchestrated hail storm of singing guitars, and the power of inspired percussion with an edge. At times, I am dropped off into a calm pool for a merciful respite before I am swept up again by the surprisingly convincing current. Whether the song ends by washing me over a cliff, or by winding down to a gentle trickle, I am always left yearning for more… as the notes that are no longer there, echo in my brain.
You have to experience it yourself! The artful programming lingers in the shadows of each song, at times un-noticed but absolutely necessary. The awesome power and beauty of the dueling guitars is matched only by driving percussion expertise, and dynamic vocals.
Something must be said here about Matthew Mayfield’s lyrics. They are nothing short of therapeutic poetry… poetry that strengthens the battered soul with a will to survive and overcome. And the delivery of these lyrics through Matthew’s voice is quite exceptional. His voice is soft, worn and strong all at once. It enables him to effortlessly move from intimate murmurs to a driving force of anger with a grace that is as smooth as glass.
I would not change a single note of this incredible compilation of artistic works. Each tune is a magnificent gem of true beauty.
Songs: Days Away Control Fall Behind Element Ceasefire The Inside Keep My Distance Wait My Turn A Cycle Strange New Place Modern Rarity Send Me Out
Visit http://www.myspace.com/mosesmayfield or my profile page to see their videos. And go to http://www.mosesmayfield.com/ to purchase the cd.
Thanx for reading. Peace.