Vonnegutt is known to have ripped the stage with the likes of Big Boi and worked in the studio with some of the South’s biggest hip-hop artists. But their EP, The Appetizer, comes to introduce them to the market before their 2011 full-length album. It accomplishes this well, as the band keeps it funky and fun, with a sound that blends easy hip-hop, the feel of rock, and the lightness of pop.
The opening track, “Bright Eyes” is catchy and upbeat, with front-man Kyle Lucas telling a story about a girl that catches and keeps his attention. Supported by the harmonies of his band mates, Lucas’ raps are basic yet complimenting, as he matches the music’s flow and style. The guitar leads heavily, with synths and drums adding flair, while the slowed down chorus is gives the song character.
“Ex Girlfriends Are Stupid” is an interesting song; upbeat like its predecessor, and the electric guitar has a great part on the bridge, whining just enough to compliment the lyrics. Although Lucas has a great sound, he has room to grow as an emcee; his lyrics could use more poetic devices to make them more stimulating. That said, “Here We Go Again” is lyrically, the best song on the EP. It features a nid-tempo beat complimented by a tambourine on the fully sung chorus of, “Open up your eyes and shut the door/cuz I can’t really hide this anymore.” The band expands the song’s concept on a compelling hook and chorus, with Lucas bringing in more wordplay.
Overall, Vonnegutt’s The Appetizer is solid, demonstrating the band’s abilities to deliver quality songs. With the release of their album next year, let’s hope that they have explored concepts other than men-women relations, and get more creative with their lyrics.
Conclusion: Sunny, pop rock with basic raps makes for a head-nodding, but dissatisfying release.
These kinds of reviews are helpful for letting me know which young artists have made it beyond the initial stage of being commercially “out there.” It’s also good to know which direction they’ll probably (hopefully) grow – what needs to happen to take them to the next level.. Good to know that fresh talent is out there trying.
I will have to check this out! Good article that gave me a head’s up about them!