The Endangered Species

The Endangered Species

Independent release, 2019

http://https://theendangeredspeciesmusic.com

REVIEW BY: Tom Haugen

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 12/03/2019

An Atlanta outfit spearheaded by the brothers Robin and Wade Divver, the duo’s debut album comes after some serious tragedies in the life of the Divver's, including their father being murdered by the Sinaloan drug cartel.

In response to these hardships, The Endangered Species formed to increase awareness, consciousness, and in all ways instill positivity in a world that hasn't exactly been that kind to the Divver family in the past. my_heart_sings_the_harmony_web_ad_alt_250

“Magic Man” gets the album started with warm, blues guitar licks as organs and crisp percussion enter the affair, and “Promise Land” follows with a calmer display of classic rock ideas, with mood and atmosphere key in the Americana-influenced delivery.

In the middle, “Mirror On The Wall” showcases some of the best singing, as the listen enters a melodic, almost '90s alt-rock area where the soothing ideas of Soundgarden or even Alice In Chains are present. “World Gone Mad” expands on that even further with a swirling haze of psych and prog rock that stabs into the forceful alt-rock. Album highlight “Sleepless Nights” then offers an emotive and firm execution of pre-grunge rock that's both rough and tuneful and even recruits some rapping.

Near the end, “Dead Silence” keeps the landscape reflective with early '90s radio rock tendencies before “Heart Breaker” moves in with the most ballad-like arrangement, with subdued beauty that's both raw and forthright. “Widow's Son” ends the listen with another gentle tune, and one that's buried in introspection and full of raw lyrics about all the hallmarks of living – pain, joy, etc.

A record with blues, rock, grooves, and fuller anthems along with quiet ebbs, there's something for everyone here. Ultimately a tribute to their father, who used to play music under The Endangered Species moniker in the '80s and early '90s, the brothers should be very proud of this effort. It's a fine album, and one that certainly will soundtrack the examined life.

Rating: B+

User Rating: Not Yet Rated


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