Los Angeles-based alt-rock outfit Centershift introduces their new EP, entitled A Different Shade…
Vocalist/guitarist Jasan Radford explains, “‘A Different Shade…’ Is the first piece of what we as a band went through, either personally or together during the last few years. In a way, we wrote and recorded the trials and accomplishments life threw our way.”
Made up of Jasan Radford (vocals, guitar), Ryan Shane Stuber (guitar), Ted Wenri (bass), and Michael Tarabotto (drums), Centershift grew out of OneSideZero, a band VH1 said released one of the most underrated nu-metal albums of the aughts.
Stuber played with Shuvel, while Wenri played with Bemus, indicating massive amounts of experience and musicianship.
Recorded at Superior Sound Studios in Cleveland, Ohio, the EP was produced by Jim Wirt of Incubus, Hoobastank, and OneSideZero fame.
Encompassing seven tracks, the EP begins with “9,” which opens on Tool-like guitars flowing into a potent, yet low-slung rhythm topped by evocative vocals. A singular guitar fills the breakdown, followed by the harmonics ascending to hefty levels.
Highlights include “Dry Well,” with its almost doom-like intro, dark and ominous. Growling guitars laced with luminous accents ride a starkly risky rhythm, while Jasan’s high tenor gives the lyrics flavors of portent. An incandescent guitar solo infuses the tune with searing, crying coloration.
A personal favorite, “Waiting for Summer,” starts off low and then ramps up to powerful, crunching guitars. The drumming on this track stands out, being at once finessed and forceful, with rumbling tom-toms and a whacking snare. For some reason, this track conjures up suggestions of Chevelle.
“Couldn’t Tell” is vaguely reminiscent of Tool crossed with Chevelle, yet set apart because of Jasan’s intense, passionate vocals.
The final track, “Kingdoms,” simultaneously light and heavy on the verses, mousses up to thick layers of roaring guitars on the chorus as Jasan’s vocals, tight with fervor, imbue the lyrics with edgy emotions.
With A Different Shade…, Centershift delivers a superb EP, one that should make many Best of the Year lists because of its vibrant power.