Eldebrock made a statement when their debut self-titled album dropped earlier this week: they are a force to be reckoned with. When their hard-hitting album released on September 14, this Canadian alt-rock group proved that they can hold their own alongside bands like Nickelback, Creed, and Daughtry.
Eldebrock got started in Spring 2009, when Del Bannerman (rhythm guitar) founded the band. From there, Richard LaLonde (bass guitar) and Jay Wegenast (lead vocals) were recruited. Barrett Moor (lead guitar) joined in late 2009, and the band finally settled on their lineup in Spring 2010 when Shawn Bannerman (drums) joined. Due to Bannerman’s late entry into the band, the drums on the album are actually done by Robin Diaz. Diaz has worked with artists such as Kiss and Theory of a Deadman.
This album commands your attention from the start. The first track, “Tomorrow,” opens with dominant guitar riffs. Then Wegenast’s gritty, strong vocals take the forefront. A face-melting guitar solo is the last element of the song that really proves that this band means business.
The third track on the album, “Ride the Waves”, starts out by showing a softer side of Eldebrock. All of the instruments, vocals, and lyrics are much more gentle in comparison to the previous tracks. Definitely the heavy rock ballad of the album, this song stands out among the rest.
The album gradually picks up the pace with the next track, “Release Me,” and Eldebrock are in full-swing again with track five, “Killer.” The song is fierce and demanding, and Moore’s Slash-inspired guitar riffs take center stage.
“Room of Stone,” the next track on the album, is a haunting ballad, and arguably the best track on the album. The song consumes the listener, and takes the listener to the deepest and darkest places of their mind. “Room of Stone” not only shows off Eldebrock’s talent, but also their versatility as artists.
Unfortunately, the downside to this album is that after “Room of Stone,” the rest of the tracks blend together. The tracks are good, but seem like cookie-cutter copies of previous songs on the album.
Eldebrock manages to go out with a bang with the last track on the album, “Wings of Rust.” The last track really embodies everything that Eldebrock has to offer: strong vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and innovative talent. “Wings of Rust” gives each member of the band an opportunity to showcase their talent, and also shows how well this band works together. The perfect choice for the last track on the album, this track leaves a lasting impression.
Although the second half of the album doesn’t stand out as much as the first, Eldebrock has certainly proved their potential with this debut album. Nickelback better watch their back, because Eldebrock could become the next big name in alt-rock.
Partnering with the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) they created their own campaign, Eldebrock’s World War On Cancer in June 2010. Their campaign promises to donate one dollar per album sold and 10 cents per song to support UICC.
