Conrad-based Kickstar has just released their four-song EP of hard-nosed rock ’n roll anthems. The album’s trio consists of Dana Hughes on bass and lead vocals, her husband Jimi Hughes on guitars, and Jeri Fouhy on guitars and vocals. The band’s current live incarnation is new, with Eric Sundgren on drums and vocals, replacing Fouhy.
Power rock is the name of the game here. “You Will Be Mine,” a love song with a confident message, comes first; it features a massive wall of overdriven guitar sounds underneath Dana Hughes’s light yet robust voice. The slightly mysterious chords and screaming high notes contribute to the flavor.
“Perfect Girl” has some Hughes ooh-oohs to start, as she sings harmony lead with herself. She then calls and answers herself on the lyric. This sparsely arranged piece is highlighted by zesty drums and guitar, and an intriguing chord structure on the hook.
Hughes shows off some influences (Pat Benatar and Joan Jett) with just the right wail to her voice on “Get Up and Run.” It’s fast moving with great slabs of guitar chords bubbling into the warped-out sound of electric guitar.
Tight rhythm and slappin’ drum work lead into a catchy hook on “You Fail.” “Ooh baby this ain’t for sale, this time you did me wrong, you fail,” Hughes vocalizes. This one is perfect for dancing in the street.
The group has been signed by Tate Music Group of Oklahoma to a recording contract, and is hoping to do a full-length work soon.
Visit them at www.kickstar.com.
– Mariss McTucker