No Longer Idle - No Longer Idle

No Longer Idle

No Longer Idle
self-released; 2015

3.5 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The five-piece rock band No Longer Idle comprised of Roosevelt Abney, Jesus Orozco, Harrison Steinbuch, Pablo Sanchez and Daniel Aiello recently released their self-titled album No Longer Idle and if you are looking for an American rock band that could be transplanted into the early ‘70s then look no further. My first thoughts when listening to No Longer Idle was that this was the type of music you want to hear on a Friday night in concert. It’s upbeat, visceral, unpretentious and sometimes cathartic. 

When you think of progressive rock bands like King Crimson, Yes and Rush what do you think of? Personally, I think of musicians who have a lot of technical talent. You can be sure that No Longer Idle has tons of that. The band usually plays at a high BPM and manages to play in the pocket. I have to admit the drumming was one element that blew me away. The guy is like a human metronome. 

The album starts with “Lady” which is a solid no frills hard rock song. It’s a great opener that doesn’t waste any time getting to the meat and potatoes of the song. The band lands upon the first chorus in a minute and half in. I thought the vocalist had a deep, soulful tone that sounded appropriate for the music. A little after the halfway mark the band goes into metal territory and the drums pulls out some double bass action. On top of that you are treated to a sweet guitar solo. 

“Cold Chicago” felt like prog rock with a hint of blues while the drumming stole the show on “Keg.” The first deviation comes from “LFO” which implements noir-esque jazz elements. It’s definitely one of the most rocking jazz songs I have heard if that makes any sense.

The band doesn’t make too far of a leap with “Henpeck's Prayer” which is a pretty straightforward blues song. As the album progresses there are some twists and turns but nothing feels too far out in left field. “Defy” sounds similar to Queens Of The Stone Age and “Malibu” a is nostalgic closer revolving around lost love. 

No Longer Idle has some mishaps but nothing too major. Overall it’s a girthy, well-written debut. That being said I’m willing to bet these guys sound even better live.

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