When thinking of really great music scenes, Oklahoma isn’t typically the first place mentioned. If referred to, it might satirize Hanson or perhaps the All American Rejects, who are both Oklahoma bred. Well welcome the next Oklahoma-bred catastrophe, Hinder.
Until some sort of status is determined, say multi-platinum status or at least selling out a venue or two, Hinder should have spent more time on Extreme Behavior and less on their hair-which is a combination of stolen haircuts dating back further than the styles of Sum 41. Their sound can only be described as semi-rock – think boy band with whiney lyrics meeting the rustic vocals of Nickelback. And it seems a recent heartbreak, combined with past obsessions, sparked the inspiration for the release of this debut.
“Get Stoned” is the band’s first radio-friendly single, and the after school special tune deals with relationships and the problem-solving techniques of sex and drugs. It’s draining, but by track seven, Hinder’s whininess is exchanged for upbeat ranting in “Room 2,” as the guitar riffs are strong enough to minimize Hinder’s crutch, weak lyrics. “By The Way” is probably Hinder’s strongest attempt, with parts of the chorus featuring multi-track singing, which for the first and only time urges meek appreciation.
Extreme Behavior proves Hinder has a long way to go before achieving their rockstar dreams, but at least at this point, they’ll settle for getting stoned and whining.
For more info see: hinderonline.com
