The Byways - Something To Prove

The Byways

Something To Prove
self-released; 2019

3.8 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

The Byways is an indie rock band from Rochester, NY that  formed in 2016 as the songwriting project of Alex Goettel. It didn’t take too long for Matt Goettel (drums), Rob Varron (guitar) and Nick Lenhard (bass) to join the group.

Something To Prove is a four-song EP which showcases their style which feels drenched in Americana from the ballads to the more rock oriented songs. The EP opens with “Believe In Me”  and the band Wilco did come to mind but this song felt a little too upbeat to be mistaken for Wilco.

There is a sort of a classic Americana flavor that felt a little more prominent in the ’90’s. I could argue this is more pop oriented Americana. The song is well delivered and well written but it also didn’t contain any surprises good or bad. It seemed like a straight shot.

“It Started With You” was a ballad to my ears. The piano and style isn’t too far away from Billy Joel. You could also make an argument for Paul McCartney just with the general older vibe. The next song “How Did We Get Here” was the most single worthy song in the batch. It’s really catchy from beginning to end.

They close with the most pensive, nostalgic and reflective song entitled “Man I Wanna Be.” The song revolves around a slower BPM, organ and guitar with a subdued rhythm section. All things considered this might be my favorite vocal performance although I thoroughly appreciated his different inflections.

​The band wears their influences on their sleeve. There's no denying the somewhat timeless rock moves, transitions and general aesthetics that was made popular by artists like Tom Petty, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and many more from the ’60s. Some bands like Wilco and Uncle Tupelo kept that flame alive by creating their signature sound from those pioneers. Music is an evolution and The Byways are again keeping this genre alive in 2020.

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