MAN EATING TIGER - ​Reflections

​MAN EATING TIGER

​Reflections
self-released; 2016

3.8 out of 5

By Ted Rogen
​

Man Eating Tiger comprised of Jason Simpson (drums/vocals/keyboards), Brian Vandegriffe (bass/vocals), Ryan Metz (guitar/vocals), Jason Emerick (guitar) and Robb Martinez (vocals/keyboards) recently released their third effort entitled Reflections. You can tell right away that this isn’ the band's first rodeo. The band has obvious chemistry and is extremely in the pocket during these nine dynamic songs. From the metronome like timing to the versatile guitar playing the band brings the goods. 

They don’t waste any time introducing themselves with the opener “Stadium.” Guitars break at the seams and cymbals crash before launching into a kinetic verse. The guitars are clever, original and melodic. I was also enjoying the vocals which feel cathartic yet stay well within the vocalist’s range. The song has some impressive height that veer towards post-rock.

“Waves” is another success. The timing, jagged guitars, bass line and drums are all pure ear candy. You can appreciate this from a technical or creative standpoint. Like the opener the song reaches some impressive dynamic heights.

The next highlight is “Crossfire.” This time around the guitars soar. I mean damn. The whole song is just one big adrenaline rush. “2 Years” is what you may consider somewhat of a breather while “Rooftops” has a higher BPM that brings the intense energy that I couldn't help but appreciate.

“Congeniality Deficiency” is what you could consider the centerpiece of the album. At seven- minutes long the song has plenty of valleys and canyons for you to explore. Considering the band sounds nothing like an era of David Bowie I was happy that they chose “Lazarus.” The band puts their own spin on the song and it works quite well as a closer. 

​Man Eating Tiger is a seasoned band and Reflections is a testament to that. Reflections is a no brainer if you want to hear a dynamic rock album with some technical and creative talent.

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