if you have any simon says reviews or know where i can find one, e-mail
me: tones@141.com.
Living on the east coast sucks these days. The rock music scene is alive, yes, but all
the way on the other side of the US. California is a hotbed for new rock music acts. The
state has spawned such acts as KoRn, Deftones, Far, (hed)pe, Spineshank, Fear Factory,
Incubus, System of a Down, Papa Roach, Tribal Disco Noise, Insolence, Salmon, Juice,
helen55, Alien Ant Farm, etc... The seemingly endless list goes on and on. And although
Simon Says has been together for over 5 years, the east coast has only heard of them now.
Their major label debut, "Jump Start", is on Hollywood Records.
The four young members (ages ranging from 19-22) make startingly good music. I expected
something hard-edged, since they come from the notorious breeder of hard music,
Sacramento. And it is hard-edged; you just have to pay close attention to find it. An easy
comparison can be made to Far. Both emocore, both from Sacto, both with intense vocal
melodies intertwined with semi-harsh harmonies. But those are just superficial
comparisons. Simon Says' music is strangely upbeat. The lyrics are not the component that
make the album happy; it's the music. It puts you in a good mood. Now that's good music.
The music is sharply original, but on some tracks, hints of other bands seep through. On
"Ship Jumper" (Track 2), the song is reminiscent of Rush, the Canadian classic
metal group. On "Bold" (Track 9), you can feel a bit of Deftones, where
"Perfect Example" (Track 5) seems TDN inspired.
If you seek new, original music, with a California metal feel, then buy Simon Says'
"Jump Start". Fans of Far and Deftones should immediately buy the CD, as it
matches your musical tastes. Also, keep an eye out for them on tour.
