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| ROTOGLOW CD Review (2004) |
| Glenn Tillman |
| Tangerine Magazine |
Rotoglow: Life Like a Lightswitch CD (www.rotoglow.com)
Rotoglow's Andrew Hellier is an amazing musical talent. He writes great tunes, has a radio friendly voice that's perfect for young audience alternative pop rock (kinda like a stronger, steadier Michael Stipe without all the weird vocal vibrato REM fans seem to crave), has definite star potential, and the innate confidence of a man who believes he can and will make it. It's my opinion, however, that he and Rotoglow are at a fork in the road of their artistic journey, and the direction they choose will decide the magnitude and tenure of their musical futures. Don't misunderstand, this is their best release so far, but it's sort of like they are playing to two different audiences. Half of this CD is made up of jumpy, youth oriented rock/pop anthems, with "You Chain" and "Hey Love" being perhaps the two strongest in that group, while the other half of the CD consists of more mature experimental excursions into modern rock where Andrew really flexes his music muscles and showcases his considerable songwriting skills. Rotoglow, in my opinion, really sound like major leaguers with their own essential signature sound when they expand outward beyond their pop rock base and let their undeniable talents and abilities come to the fore on tunes like "Embryonic Flux" and "Section C". Do they sometimes try a little too hard to create a video single breakthrough to light up the ever shining MTV TRL pathway to fame and fortune? Maybe... (A video of "Water Flows" or "Key to my Head" might just be that kind of video, by the way). I know that Andrew openly desires (and I believe he absolutely does have the ability) to make it to the big time. I admire his honesty, I hope he does make it, and keeps making music for a long time. But, will fun pop or serious alt rock be the ticket, or will Rotoglow continue to offer a tasty mix of both flavors? Do I hear a band in transition? I've seen these guys lift up a club full of jaded hipsters with their energy and hook filled tunes, but I'm even more impressed by the continued evolution and development of their vibrant, dynamic, experimental side. Regardless, this is an excellent effort full of great songs that document the growth of Andrew the musician/songwriter and Rotoglow the band.
Well done. - Glenn Tillman.
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