Natty Ward - THE UNKNOWNS EP: or, I Did All of This in My Bedroom, Predominantly Late at Night

Natty Ward

THE UNKNOWNS EP: or, I Did All of This in My Bedroom, Predominantly Late at Night
self-released; 2015

3.3 out of 5

By Ted Rogen
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Ward wasn’t lying about recording this in his bedroom, as that is pretty self-evident when you hear the songs. His songs revolve around no more than a guitar and his vocals. The songs aren't too shabby and the best thing about it is the upbeat enthusiasm in which they are delivered. 

I feel it would be a disservice not to mention the digital distortion that a number of the songs are covered in. I’m going to assume that this was not intentional but I could be wrong. Here's a little tip for you out there that run into a similar problem. The usually ugly sounding distortion can usually be avoided by simply turning down the preamp and not coming in so hot. Another great way to avoid it is if you have exceptionally dynamic material is to insert a compressor into the chain.

Upon first listen the songs on this album sound similar but the songs get a little more defined with repeated listens. Ward bounces from poppy, teenage romance type songs you might expect to hear in romantic comedies from the ‘90s to almost straight up comedy. Ward occasionally flexes his muscles when it comes to his guitar playing.

Ward reminded me of Fountains of Wayne on “With Me.” His lyrics will resonate with almost every person under twenty-five. He sings, “My bank account is at the point where I'm 'bout to go into negative dollars / But it will all be a-okay / 'Cause I've got these business plans running through my brain / Maybe I'll make an app / Which will make some cash.” 

“Time Machine” is a gut buster. I especially enjoyed the part where he called Ben Franklin “The Man.” Hey, look at it this way Ward had the cojones to say what we have all been thinking for years. Take that Alexander Hamilton. Ward also worries about what he will do after college on “Future” (don’t worry Ward you will figure it out) and later on in the album dabbles into a topic that has until now has been completely avoided in music - breaking up. 

I got a good vibe off Ward. It’s not the most polished album you will hear this year but it is good fun.

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