A relatively new band, Necktie Social was founded in early 2022 by members Dusty Owen, Joey Torres, Corey Davis, and Jacob Veal. While only about three years old, the band showcases a mature and full-bodied sound in their latest album, “Red Wine Haze.” Necktie Social’s music is influenced by classic rock and blues. Both influences are cleverly displayed and interwoven throughout “Red Wine Haze.” With clear and powerful playing and distinct vocals, Necktie Social is making a prominent statement with their powerhouse record “Red Wine Haze.”
Starting off steady until it explodes into a power riff, is “Devil’s Backbone,” the opening song of the album. While mostly a classic rock anthem, the blues and country rock influence is clearly felt through the guitar melodies. The guitars are the hero of this song, nevertheless the band strikes a balance between the guitars and their lead singer’s unmistakable vocals. Forgotten and cast out, the artist sings of being “Born in the devil’s backbone / A man on the run.” It’s a formidable image to start the album with and immediately snares the listener, like the devil himself come up to party.
The namesake song, “Red Wine Haze,” all rhythm and rock, begins with a stellar guitar blend and changes to a steady strumming that anchors the rest of the song like a pulse. More country than the songs previous, the singer channels country soul and sings about a woman in a haze: “You’re the target she’ll never miss / She’s an angel but she loves the hell outta me / She’s the one that I need.” The ideal end to the first half of the album, “Red Wine Haze,” encapsulates the record with its lyrical juxtaposition of devils, angels, and need.
“Walk on Water,” the next song after “Red Wine Haze,” and the first song of the second half is a curious Biblical reference after songs about devil and hellish need. The title might be referring to a miracle, but Necktie Social certainly twists the narrative by saying that they are sinners and will never walk on water: “No preacher man gonna ever save me.” Back to a more classic rock sound, like Van Halen, the drums and guitar burst into the song and refuse to let up even until the last second.
The final song and stand-out, “Hello or Goodbye,” is started by a bluesy chorus of guitars that gradually builds and builds to a strong and emotional surge. The lead singer’s vocals reach their peak in this song, especially with the noticeable background harmonies, and with the expert merge of vocals and instruments. The album might have been primarily hard-partying in the previous half, but the heart of the band sparkles in this number. After the second chorus, the guitars change again to rhythm that makes one want to roll the car windows down and drive until the sun sets. A fantastic finish to an exemplary showing by Necktie Social.
Necktie Social investigates a darker side in “Red Wine Haze,” from their misdeeds to hellish need. The band might only be three years old, but don’t let their “youth” be mistaken for “inexperience” as they send out a clear message with this album. Like their inspirations before, Necktie Social wants to be recorded with the best in classic and/or country rock, which, dare to say, is not long off if indicated by this album.
By Annamaria Lund