American Minor - S/T (2005)

American Minor's debut is a good reminder of what rock and roll is all about. It's loud, it's catchy and it's not forced or overshadowed by overly complex lyrics or arrangements. The straightforward, purist rock music and choruses on the CD are hard not to admire, whether or not you're a fan of classic or Southern rock (two genres that have consistently been associated with the band).

The five-piece band, native to West Virginia, arrived to the Champaign, Illinois music scene in 2002. Since then, they have gathered a following and landed a major record deal with Red Ink/Jive. The band's sound has been most often described as Southern rock, but the material here is much more neo-classic rock, adopting a tough, Stonesy swagger. American Minor manages to play on the most rewarding traits of classic rock while still sounding modern.

The disc kicks off in full force with "Walk On," the catchiest and most accessible song, which is part blues rock grind, part New York glam. "Shine" is another highlight, combining a hard-edged backdrop with an upbeat, pop chorus. Lead singer Rob McCutcheon's soulful voice is perfect for the type of down-and-dirty, back-to-basics rock showcased on these tracks. It is just as suited to the power balladry of "All My Time," which provides a refreshing change of pace during the second half of the CD.

The entire band's chemistry is apparent, as its members work together perfectly to create a sound that is dynamic and tight, making "American Minor" a refreshing alternative to often self-obsessed popular and indie rock music of today. (amazon customer review)