The Marwills - Facts & Figures

The Marwills

Facts & Figures
self-released; 2014

3.4 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

This album Facts & Figures is just as dirty as the bluesy rock gets, cranking down the drive and glide of the guitar like honky tonk maestros. The Marwills showcase many shades of southern rock while still leaving room to spice things up with some jazz, folk country, and even funk. One minute the throttle is relaxed and grooving and the next it’s time to hit the dance floor. Leave it to the drummer’s choices and that guitar chug to dictate movement; simple enough and oh so effective. 

Swampy backbeats, quick quasi-disco passages, you name it – you’ll probably get a taste of it on Facts & Figures. Most songs carry a nice medium pace and seem to narrate a relaxing and extended backyard party, of course still harboring great soul and storytelling nature. The choruses are often supported with gang vocal callbacks and repetitive statements, a perfect recipe for deep-fried catchiness. The Marwills have some solid musicianship and build upon the blues in a unique way, making the sound even that more desirable. It’s like the product of Stevie Ray Vaughn inspired Maroon 5. Just see for yourself.

I’d suggest kicking things off right where they want you to. “Don’t Go Home” is a danceable romp through classic rock grit and country attitude. There’s even some Elvis like vocal timbres just to keep you on your toes. Brett Bonvie has a great sense of tone and changes his voice just so slightly between certain tracks so as to best serve the aesthetic of the song. Sometimes it’s on the edge of a growl and other times almost clean or weighted with twang.

“Don’t Go Joe” is similar in title to the opener, but carries a strong four on the floor pulse throughout which begs those boots to stomp along and bust a move or two. I think this one could really take off with just a minute or so dedicated to that infectious chorus, “Don’t go Joe, tappin your toe.” The phrasing and shape around it couldn’t be more locked in. In general, the band could really open up on this record, but that’s just not what these guys are about. They have a power to them that hits home in its own way and maybe some crashing ride cymbal and overdrive would put them out of their wheelhouse. Whatever the case, you’ll dig their brand.

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