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a review on Esra Dekan submitted by jono.
The debut release from Auckland 5 piece rockers Esra Dekan, Studio Sessions, is a hidden gem. Though not a mainstream force as yet, Esra Dekan have struck gold with this diversified 13 track album.
Their ability to move from heavy rock to tranquil bliss effectively within a song brings back memories of Smashing Pumpkins in their prime.
"Studio Sessions" starts with avengeance with two rock tracks titled "Last Chance" and "Hugo". Both tracks feature catchy intro's and compulsive drum beats. Lead singer Jon Pickford's vocal talents are clear for all to hear. "Hugo's" dark bass gives the listener a forlorn outlook.
"Start Again" heads off in a completely new direction and gets the blood pumping with with quick fire beats and riffs before the bar is raised with two beautiful ballads. "Girl next door" is full of wonderful lyrics and made all the better by amazing backing vocals. "All right" is more of a darker melody with heavy bass that gives it a dour flavour. This track stands out more than any other on the album.
From rock to unabashed beauty, "Studio Sessions" then moves a sharp right to pop rock with "Watch the Clock". This track is pop rock at it's finest combined with melodic tendencies. The chorus is the sort of thing that you would sing in the shower, and also one of those songs that gets stuck in your head.
The listener is taken on an emotional rollercoaster when listening to "As Sweet As". Succulent lyrics that tolead to a reflective mood about the one that got away.
Another sharp change of direction sees the Ben Harper like "Heal Your Mind". Relentless strumming and Harper-like riffs made this track a standout.
In the final track, "Justify", Esra Dekan have recreated the broken record effect with short, frenetic guitar punctuated by bass.
Esra Dekan are knocking at the door. It's not just the collective skill of each musician, or the vocals talents of Jon Pickford. The single thing that stands out is the backing vocals.
Even though 2004 has just begun, this is the best album I've heard this year, and will take some beating. I just hope that the radio stations will do Esra Dekan justice.
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