Review by Shannon Shumaker
Raising Cadence are carving out a space all their own in the music scene by blending elements of rock, pop and jazz for a very unique and eclectic sound on their new EP, Take Me Higher. Driven by smooth guitar, groovy bass, spectacular percussion and some incredibly stunning vocal harmonies, Raising Cadence’s sound falls in line with bands like Dance Gavin Dance without sounding like a carbon copy. Instead, they stand out with their own unique groove that’ll set them apart from the pack on this release.
The EP’s opening title track will definitely grab you attention with gorgeous high vocals right off the bat, and they’ll keep you hooked all throughout with incredible runs, a catchy chorus and mind blowing harmonies coupled with smooth, groovy instrumentals. “Take Me Higher” is the perfect snapshot of Raising Cadence’s sound, as the whole band works perfectly together on this track. By the time it comes to an end, you’ll feel blindsided by their impressive songwriting, and that’s only one song in.
Whatever you think you should expect from Take Me Higher, prepare to be surprised. From the opening track, “Never Tell Me The Odds” continues to explore the band’s unique vocal work, kicking off with rapped verses and blooming with a chorus that sounds similar to Coheed And Cambria vocally. Instrumentally, “Never Tell Me The Odds” still stays in line with the first track though, making the two very diverse songs blend well.
Following “Never Tell Me The Odds” is the slightly toned down and smooth love song, “After Tonight.” Then comes one of the most unique songs on the album, “Fallen Not Forgotten.” Although instrumentally, this track is one of the softest and most soothing of the five, it hosts some of the most emotional lyricism and dynamic vocals on the EP, transitioning from soft, soothing verses to intense half-screams in the blink of an eye. The five minute masterpiece, “Said & Done” then brings the EP to a powerful close, leaving listeners hopeful for the next chapter in the band’s story.
Take Me Higher will certainly take Raising Cadence to a whole new level. Three years in the making, this EP finds the band truly embracing and fully developing their unique sound. With each song showcasing a different side of the band, Take Me Higher is the perfect teaser for what we can only hope is a dynamic full-length in the future.
LISTEN TO “Take me Higher” or “Fallen Not Forgotten”
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