The Clocktown Giants is a four-man band from Ramsey, NJ, that has discovered their own unique style. In their debut EP On A Rope, the team that has been together since high school toys with alternative rock, metal and even jazz elements to create a one-of-a-kind sound. The squad of Chris Ferrante on guitar and lead vocals, Will Davis on bass and vocals, Joey Kayek on lead guitar and Luke Schaffel banging the drums invoke thoughts of Coheed and Cambria crossed with Rush and really brings out a fun and eclectic mix of organized noises.
On A Rope EP kicks off with a straight up Van Halen style shred, minus the ’80s hairdo in the song “Surveillance.” This track was undoubtedly placed intentionally as number one given the fact that it will get you up and on your feet and stoked for the remainder of the album. Ferrante dominates with his vocals and is accompanied by abundant guitar and cymbal-heavy percussion. It’s loud, it’s dominating; it’s rock n’roll, baby. The second track “On A Rope” pivots to a more honky-tonk rhythm while keeping its shredding metal ax and boisterous drums in the forefront. There is a lot more texture to this song and it kind of makes you want to start tapping your toe and nodding your head. Joey Kayek once again comes in strong with that screaming guitar and Luke Schaffel keeps pace on his drums. This next song “Break Me” might throw you within the first few seconds. If Johnny Cash were in a metal band, he would sound just like that opening guitar riff, am I right?. Soon after it explodes into a cacophony of all of their instruments and even some new vocals. This is the first track where the entire band seems to join in and sing, showcasing the versatility and flexibility of the group as a whole. High energy and in your face, once again. Up next and arguably the best track on this uncommon EP is “Thank You.” The crew decides to slow it down and let Ferrante flex his softer pipes. Kayek’s smooth and creamy riffs and Schaffel’s steady drumsticks keep them on pace. But wait, this is a metal band. No time for these plush sounds. As soon as 2:10 hits it’s off to the races again. Kaye brings you back from the dead with an emphatic transition and just like that they’re back to rocking. Plenty of excellent contrast to be had with this one. The EP closes down with “The Others.” Or should I say, closes up? Kaye is again the star of this track. He hooks you right in from the get-go, which is how the majority of the story goes with this five-track selection by the boys from Ramsey. Look out for more to come from this foursome and expect to continue seeing plenty of experimentation and variation within their untitled genre and sound.
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