Over the years we’ve seen punk, rock & even alternative rock bands slowly erode into over-commercialized, corporate puppet shows. Talking to many music fans out there, the response is overwhelming. Give me something new, something fresh & fun. Give me band that dishes out good old fashioned Indie Rock with a no holes barred musical delivery.
So across my desk slides the new CD by New Jersey’s own Mike Ian entitled Puzzle Piece headed up by guitarist/singer/songwriter Michael Ianieri. What I heard put a smile on my face, finally an artist that gets it. Puzzle Pieces is some of the best new music I’ve heard in quite some time delivering substance, quality & many other aforementioned items I spoke about. You want rock, you want punk, you want music that is packed with a fun filled Indie Rock vibe? Well look no further. This CD covers all the bases delivering solid playing & amazing songwriting & a musical flair that just lets it all hang out. Music reminds me of Gin Blossoms, The White Stripes, Blind Melon, & even The Beetles .My favorite track — “The Great Escape.”.
Puzzle Pieces by Michael Ian is a musical breath of fresh air. It’s a polished yet raw sounding production from start to finish & is just a blast to listen to. It‘s got it all – great playing, solid writing, & a raw Indie college rock feel. It’s definitely a musical production that gives us a fresh glimpse at a hot new artist & takes us back a few years before everything started sounding like — well Nikelback.
By: Drew Blackwell – INDIE MUSIC MEDIA STAFF
[Rating: 4/5]
I have seen Mike perform live many times w/ his 9 piece dance band “The FM Band”(Phenominal!! Band! Mike graciously gave me a copy of the CD & I had already heard some of the songs from his website!!! Watching & Listening to Mike play live is always an awe inspiring experience!!! Best of all, I get free on the spot gtr lessons! And altho I have been playing for 30 years, Mike is in a class by himself!!! Something people might not know is that Mike plays all the instruments & produces!!! One of thee “Most Amazing all around artists I have ever had the fortune of becoming friends with!!! My only selfish complaint to Mike is “When are we going to Jam/Record!!! Busy Beaver Mike!!! Forever a fan!!! Scott Andrews!!!