Rootdown: Tidal Wave

[rating=4.00]

Rootdown’s latest CD is a bit of a departure from their previous releases—but only slightly—as the sound is more mature as is some of the content. This is after all the band who has sung about the beach, flip flops and their love of the Oregon Mexican food chain Burrito Boy on previous releases. On Tidal Wave, there is still plenty of fun to be had in terms of their catchy reggae dance rock sound, and they throw in a couple of more serious songs to even things out a little, but in the end this album is largely a celebration of life, and it’s going to make you want to dance like a maniac.

From the reggae grooves of “Good Day” to the anthemic radio rock of “Golden,” the band shines and demonstrates that their sights are set on enjoying life and pointing out the bright spots for everyone to see. The funky “Weekend” does the same, highlighting everyone’s favorite part of the week as a chance to hang with friends and not let life get you down. And when it comes to some insanely danceable, catchy beats, one need look no further than the combo of “HB” and “Karl Malone in a Cowboy Hat.” Let’s just say that if you can’t dance to both of these tracks, then you need to go to a hospital because chances are good that you don’t have a pulse.

Rootdown has created their best, most polished effort to date with this release, and lead singer Paul Wright’s vocals and raps have never been more melodic or poised. The band creates excellent grooves to move to, even on more serious songs like the title track and “Storm Warning,” so the whole experience is something that will get you going. This is a solid release.

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