Bushicks - Down The Line

Bushicks

Down The Line
self-released; 2016

3.7 out of 5

By Andrew Westberry
​

Four-piece rock n’ roll band Bushicks is the brainchild of Jonathan Patrizio, also know as Jonny Bushick, the central writer for the band. The band has currently been together for about a year, and their debut EP Down The Line, an album heavily influenced by the band’s base in New York City, features four of the first five songs that the band learned and wrote together.

The EP begins with a sultry guitar solo intro in “Ralph The Mouse” a traditional rock song with dueling electric guitars, drums and bass generating a full backing sound for Jonny Bushick’s spirited vocals. The laid-back tune is very catchy, and motifs and themes that repeat throughout the track bring an added familiarity to the album’s inviting opener.

The energy of the album is reduced slightly in “Light (at the bottom)”, as slowly strumming guitars accompany a wistful vocal performance in the ballad. The rest of the band joins in as the song builds dynamically, and solos from both guitars and whistling make for an intriguing listening experience.

“Shadows” opens with a technical, catchy guitar riff that continues past the intro of the track into the main body of the song. Slow, steady hi-hat and bass lines provide a solid foundation upon which Jonny Bushick’s vocals and the electric guitars layer over with quickness and precision, making for a highly polished song and complete soundscape that pushes the borders of a four-member rock band.

​The EP comes to a close with “Dream Alone” the album’s longest and most mellow song. Relaxed strumming and singing carry the song to its midpoint, when a more lively, upbeat style takes over and the unbridled energy of Bushicks is released. Bluesy guitar licks, crashing cymbals and unfettered vocals create a powerful ending to the EP. Overall, Bushicks has successfully created a novel, modern album in Down The Line that maintains classic elements of rock n’ roll while maintaining a unique sound and musical identity that will serve them well in their artistic journey.

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