The Waltz - The Pilot

The Waltz

The Pilot
self-released; 2016

3.5 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

The Waltz is a band from Colorado comprised of Diego Figueroa (vocals), Kellen Ryne Butler (lead guitar), Aaron Sanchez (bass guitar) and Pieter Tampubolon (drums). On their EP The Pilot they meld funk with alternative music alongs with some other deviations.

The band is young in a number of ways. They graduated high school not too long ago and the band formed a little over a year ago. After spending some time listening to The Pilot it seems that the band is searching for a signature sound but I can’t complain about their delivery.

They open with “Ballerina.” A couple of bands from back in the ’80s as well as today came to mind. The buoyant bass line brings to mind Blondie but it also doesn't sound far off from a band like Franz Ferdinand. It’s a fun song anyway you look at it. It’s catchy and if they sound half as good live as they do on their recording I’m sure this one will have crowds jumping. 

They follow up with the more smooth “Dance!!.” The song is arguably more R&B and funk.  Lots of a wah pedal and crisp bass lines make this one perfect for a late night lounge. “Do You Love?” was a highlight and not just because of the flute. This song is old school funk from the ’70s and the band nails it. Today or three decades ago the ladies will love this one because of the vocal delivery. You can’t deny the chorus on the song which is immediately memorable and catchy.

The band's short time together becomes apparent on “Blue Suede Shoes.” Not much funk here and it sounds more punk. On its own the song works but in context of the other songs it feels like it comes out of left field. The closer “Orange Douche” passes by ’70s funk and goes into early Red Hot Chili Peppers territory. It’s more abrasive than the funk fueled songs that came before.

​The Waltz has the goods but now comes the part where they have to find their signature sound. Thus part usually takes some time and is a natural process. Overall, The Pilot is a fun, easy to enjoy EP that hints at a band with a lot of potential.

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