Skeever - Skeever

Skeever

​Skeever
self-released; 2015

3.5 out of 5

​By Ted Rogen

Skeever is a band from North Dakota comprised of Jake Collins, Patrick Callender, Blake Spokely and Jacob Douglas. The band has stated they have been influenced from blues, to alternative, to punk, to heavy metal, to guitar driven rock. Out of those genres alternative and heavy are the most overt. I’d be digging to say there is a strain of punk or blues on much of this self-titled album Skeever.

Skeever isn’t the most innovative rock band to recently emerge. In fact I thought they sounded like something that was reminiscent of ‘90s alternative. This is not a dig in anyway especially when I consider bands like Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins and Stone Temple Pilots to have delivered some of the best music in the past fifty years.

Things start with “Believe.” The opening lead guitar riff actually sounds more aligned with ‘80s rock. As the song progresses the rest of the instruments make their way into the mix. The drumbeat becomes more intense, the guitars rely on distorted power chords and the bass reinforces the low-end. It’s a well-written song and has a number of memorable moments.

“Go Away” is a straightforward poppy rock song while “Precipice” further establishes the band's overall sound. Three songs in and I felt the band delivered well-crafted songs but lacked any surprises; good or bad. That being said the lead guitar skill on “Precipice” was impressive.

“Remember Me” was a highlight. It wasn’t drastically different from the other songs but was immediately accessible and stayed with me after it was over. They close with a heavy song entitled “Hours” which has some resemblance to Alice In Chains.

At the end of the day Skeever is a no frills rock band that delivers the goods and will most likely resonate with those of us who like their whiskey and their music straight. The album is cohesive and the band builds a foundation with these songs. On their next effort this foundation gives them a little more room to explore sonic possibilities. 

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