Arjun is a 3 member band from New York. Band members include: Eddie Arjun Peters on guitar, Lamar Myers on drums, and Andre Lyles. New York is a colorful place and it has its fair share of unpredictability and chaos. This might just be the perfect locale to explore the realm of musical expression. Their latest EP “Space” delivers all of the above and will reveal all the a-typical conventions of today’s high energy Progressive Rock that so many adore. This creates a solid sonic space for the listener to bask in. The first track “Orion” lifts off the ground nicely and is in itself an impressive kickoff statement especially how it leads one into Track 2 “Gone.’ Both tracks are remarkably striking, and successfully gravities you right away like a magnet. All 5 songs presented deliver a stunning collection of music that slowly runs the gamut and has much to offer insofar as impressive music and captivating showmanship. Musical comparables for me include Bright Eyes, Thriving Ivory, Broken Social Scene and definitely The Dave Mathews Band. One cannot help but admire artists with strong songwriting skills, off the chart chops, and truthful conviction all the while demonstrating a strong a level of creativity in the process. One senses a growing ambition as this EP advances. Arjun’s exciting sound hits the mark and with intellectually stimulating movements all providing a very real and powerful source of inspiration. The musicianship is rock steady and the overall production value tows the line. All in all a great set of songs. Speaking of which notable standouts for me include: (Galaxies) and (Space).
Criticism: Ironically the cover art suffers from a lack of creativity.
If you want a high energy, unpredictable Progressive rocking staple there’s something on this record for you. Obviously many will fall head over heals with these three along the East coast. I feel this is one band that’s set up rather well for mainstream success this year. Some of this plays into strong marketability potential world wide. Some pieces present more modern sounding overtones but despite all this the flavor possess traditional Progressive Rock n’ Roll textures with some Fusionist nuances thrown in. This is really what makes Arjun so enticing to me personally — especially since they color outside the lines. Arjun possesses an impressive look and sound. “Space” grants you rare access to peer into the soul of a tormented soul — from a New York perspective shall we say.
Label: Independent Artist
Final Rating: 3.5.5 Stars
Review by Blaine Calhoun edited by J.J. McCall
Review comments: johnmccall964@gmail.com
