Some Fabulous "Clues" From The Grip Weeds

The Grip Weeds, the supremely talented psychedelic rock/pop outfit from New Jersey, have just issued a new EP, Early Clues. This release is absolutely cause for celebration by longtime fans of the band, a group which includes this writer. Early Clues gives us a tantalizing glimpse into the future, since the band is hard at work prepping a new record that's set to be released later this year, and the EP features three songs from that disc. That upcoming album is titled Soul Bender, and if the tracks included on Early Clues are any indication, then Soul Bender is going to be yet another top-notch effort from this magnificent band.

The EP features a trio of phenomenal tracks, all of which showcase the band's affinity for a variety of musical genres, including rock, pop, modern rock and power pop. "Flowers For Cynthia" is a glorious slice of psychedelia, topped with a healthy dollop of baroque pop. The tune's 1960s ambience is imbued with sublime vocals and groovy guitars, evoking the sounds of bands like The Beatles, The Left Banke and The Zombies. Co-written with David Wojciechowski of the Insomniacs, it's a track that's very much in the band's multi-genre wheelhouse.
 
Also included on Early Clues is "Column Of Air," a joyous paen to the creative process, which would fit neatly onto a retro themed modern rock playlist. The song is filled with positive emotions and ethereal vibes, and features inspired work from the entire band, whose lineup includes Kurt Reil on drums and vocals, Kristin Pinell Reil on lead vocals and guitar, Rick Reil on keyboards, guitar and vocals, and Dave DeSantis on bass. Finally, there's "Conquer and Divide," which allows the group to indulge their love of garage rock on a boisterous tune that's spiced up with a bit of punk rock attitude.
 
All of the songs on Early Clues effectively display the love that The Grip Weeds feel for these classic genres, and their mastery at creating new music that not only celebrates them, but takes them in new directions, combining psychedelic rock, power pop, and modern rock. I'm really looking forward to checking out Soul Bender when it's released later this year, and hearing what other musical gems the band has in store for us. For more on The Grip Weeds and Early Clues, head over to https://www.gripweeds.com/ or https://jemrecordings.com/.