In a world where digital music has often pushed pure instrumental and vocal talent to the wayside, Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy’s debut album, “Four Ever,” emerges as a vibrant celebration of acoustics, stirring harmonies, and heartfelt songwriting. Released by MTS Records and celebrated with a performance at the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, this album is a deep dive into the roots of folk, country, and classic rock through a modern lens.
The album kicks off with “Here Comes Tomorrow,” a track that sets a hopeful tone with its bright guitar lines and uplifting melodies. It’s immediately clear that VZHM is not just a band, but a conglomeration of seasoned musicians who understand the power of a good hook and an honest lyric. John Vento’s vocals, robust with experience, guide the listener through a journey lined with reflective narratives and rich soundscapes.
“Racing Trains” accelerates the pace with a rhythm that mimics the hustle of life, bolstered by Robert Zigerelli’s masterful guitar work. The song is an excellent showcase of the band’s ability to blend storytelling with melody, creating a song that is as catchy as it is contemplative.
One of the album’s highlights, “Love, Lust & Wreckage,” already recognized on the UK iTunes chart, is a soul-stirring piece that delves into the complexities of human emotions. Cherylann Hawk’s voice is particularly striking here, providing a beautiful contrast to Vento’s huskier tones. The duo’s vocal interplay adds a layer of depth that enriches the song’s thematic resonance.
The inclusion of covers like “Garden Party” and “Please Don’t Bury Me” pays homage to the influencers of their musical journey. Their rendition of Rick Nelson’s “Garden Party” is respectful yet fresh, and their take on John Prine’s “Please Don’t Bury Me” captures the original’s whimsical, yet poignant spirit without losing their own identity.
“Spaghetti Western,” another standout original, draws inspiration from cinematic scores, weaving an auditory tapestry that is both dramatic and playful. This track is a testament to Kevin McCarthy’s versatility on the guitar, as he lays down a mix of riffs that could easily belong in a sweeping western epic.
“I’m So In Love With You” is a tender ballad that showcases the band’s softer side. The song’s simplicity is its strength, allowing the emotional lyrics and harmonious vocals to stand front and center. It’s a heartfelt pause in the midst of the album’s more energetic tracks.
“Set My Heart Free” and “A Little Nudge” round out the album by reinforcing the band’s flair for catchy, emotion-driven rock. These songs encapsulate the essence of VZHM’s sound—organic, raw, and endlessly passionate.
Production-wise, the album benefits enormously from being recorded by David Granati at Maplewood Studio. The production values maintain a clean sound that respects the acoustic nature of the music, allowing each instrument space to breathe and be heard clearly. The result is a sound that feels live and immediate, as if the band is performing right in front of you.
“Four Ever” is more than just a collection of songs. It’s a narrative of artistic passion, a showcase of musicianship, and a testament to the band’s chemistry. In a music era dominated by programmed beats and synthetic sounds, VZHM brings us back to music’s roots, while still keeping an eye on the present and future.
For fans of folk, country, and classic rock—or for anyone who appreciates well-crafted music performed with genuine emotion—”Four Ever” is a must-listen. It’s a powerful debut that not only promises great potential but also delivers it with every chord and chorus.
–John Richter
