Reviews

With an EP, a band has to make a lasting statement about themselves with a minimum of tape.  Fivespeed, a five piece from Phoenix, AZ, show their musical talent but fail to impress in four songs. While clearly competent musicians, Fivespeed chooses to tread a well worn path, playing ‘safe’ rock with punk touches  ala fellow Phoenixians Jimmy Eat World.  The music on Bella sounds hella like something that would be played on a corporate modern rock station.  Fivespeed has tons more talent than most of those dime-a-dozen heavy bands, but you just can’t beat crappy music at its own game. A new game must be played, but Fivespeed aren’t throwing their hat in the right ring.
 
Speaking of gaming, the first song is about gambling. At least that’s what the title (Vegas) and the not so great lyrics (“I’ve placed my bets, my luck’s run out and they’ll probably win”) lead me to believe. The third track, Hand Or Rifle, is clearly the standout.  Fivespeed breaks it down with some fader effects and sounds as if they are going to break out with a sound of their own.  Oh, no.  Here comes the big crashing guitars and the overwrought chorus.  Never mind.
 
The cover of this album makes me think I am going blind. There is an image printed on black with ink only slightly lighter. It looks like a Decepticon standing over the prone body (close-up) of a elderly man in old style aviator goggles. The booklet smells like a comic book.  his music leads me to distraction. Not recommended.