The Blacktop Cadence
Chemistry for Changing Times
Keystone-Ember
Before I had heard them, I asked a friend what The Blacktop Cadence sounded like, and his reply was “a neutered Hot Water Music.” After listening to this several times, I will correct him by saying that this is a “kinder, gentler Hot Water Music.” There’s a big difference. The HWM comparison comes naturally since Blacktop and Hot Water share two members (George, drums, and Chris, vocals and guitar). There’s a pretty distinct sonic similarity too, but Blacktop Cadence leans more toward the softer, more personal side of the “emo” landscape than Hot Water Music does. The signature rough voices aren’t as apparent here and the songs are more laid back than the typical HWM fare. I don’t want this to come across as saying that this is a watered-down version of the original because this can definitely stand on it own. I’m sure members of the band would be hesitant to say that this is a side project, which they undoubtedly have and will be considered, particularly with the ongoing success of Hot Water Music. Regardless of the HWM asterisk by their name this is pretty solid record and worth a listen. Keystone-Ember Records, P.O. Box 1798, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18703
