A band like the Redwalls gives credence to theories claiming that aesthetic preferences could be passed along through genetic code. But in this case, it’s something much more complex than two siblings collaborating and harmonizing as the Redwalls’ Baren brothers do on De Nova, the band’s major-label debut. It’s as if an anthology of their parents’ pop music, both American and British, was transmitted into these young lads via some sort of groovy amino acids, ones that have recently been jostled into action and manifested in the form of neat and nifty rock’n’roll ditties.
Vocalist/guitarist Logan Baren, who handles the majority of songwriting duties, is 22. Bassist/vocalist Justin Baren and guitarist Andrew Langer — who might as well be blood, having grown up on the same block as the Barens in Deerfield, Ill. — are 20, and more recently added drummer Ben Greeno is 21. Yet on De Nova, the abundant influences come from those acts we tend to call “timeless.” Tinges of Southern rock mix with Beatles-esque melodies and R&B horns — so good to hear a sax these days! — on lead single “Thank You” (listen and watch — check links in right column), while a bit of Kinks-style shuffle provides support to a surprising protest message on “Falling Down.” Later, the band builds a levee-breaking groove on “Back Together” and offers classic mod takes on American guitar soul via the plaintively titled “Rock & Roll.”
Oasis, a band that’s no stranger to rock homage, has tapped these young upstarts to be among the opening acts on five nights of their U.K. tour, including two in Oasis’ hometown of Manchester. But American audiences can catch them at a few varied summer dates, listed here. De Nova is out now.
The Redwalls tour dates:
6/24, Chicago, IL (The Metro) 6/25, Knoxville, TN (WOKI Radio Show) 7/20, Philadelphia, PA (TLA) — supporting Kaiser Chiefs 7/21, New York, NY (Webster Hall) — supporting Kaiser Chiefs 7/23, Chicago, IL (Lollapalooza) 8/17, Madison, WI (High Noon Saloon)
Links: The Redwalls official site
