Dead End Lane-“Crush” Review

I have been going to Dead End Lane shows for a long time. Over 15 years at this point. I have probably seen them more times than any other band. It has been an amazing experience seeing the band grow, evolve, and persevere through the years. It was an honor sharing the stage with them in the early years of the band. One hundred percent if I do not find them playing a Halloween show at the Sidebar in Baltimore, Erin dressed as Peggy Bundy, Tyler in a sleeveless Dead End Lane shirt looking cool as hell, my old band Axe the Stache never exists. They blew the roof off the place that night and every night I have seen them since. They also gained a lifelong fan that night!

Dead End Lane is:

Erin Maltese-Vocals

Tyler Soprano-Guitar

Josh Douglas-Bass

Will West-Drums

This is a polished, honed in, years crafted Dead End Lane. Erin’s vocals are absolutely stunning throughout. Most notable for me on “Antisocial” and “Invaders”. The latter giving me chills during the harmonies. Anytime you add one of my favorite voices, Colleen “Tuff Cookie” Curran of The Soularites, you get magic. “Gwen” and “So Fake” showcase not only the two’s natural chemistry vocally but the bands versatility as well. I find myself singing the choruses a lot. Tyler Soprano’s guitar work is as salacious as ever. His tone and style is truly his own. The way he seamlessly mixes 50’s style, punk, and chaotically unique solos/riffs is impressive. Most notable on “The Limit” and “Zero”. Josh’s bass playing brings a new energy to the album. Great tone and RUNS throughout. The wonderful opening track, “Paper Heart”, and “Zero” really show his chops. Will’s drumming is top notch from start to finish. Reminds me of one of the most underrated punk drummers, Yuri Ruley of MxPx. Huge sound, technical and creative. “Crying Over You” is a beautiful ode to who, through only this song, I can tell was a good man. You can really hear the emotion resonating in Erin’s voice as she sings about her father’s memory. The violin was a wonderful touch. Truly a stunning way to end a wonderful album. Get this on vinyl from shakin hips records before it’s too late. I think Dead End Lane’s stock is about to skyrocket with this release and it could not happen to a more deserving band. HELP EACH OTHER UP IN THE PIT!

https://www.facebook.com/share/1Cs9uXGyFh/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://open.spotify.com/album/1UiS7we55XcGoSlXxYmYBi?si=LiW4Nz-hQxmZy4fgYHNs1Q

www.shakinhipsrecords.com