And your ears shall hear…

I want whatever the folks from Sheer Mag are on! I want that energy, that chemistry, that charisma, and, above all, that take no prisoners’ attitude. They don’t give a fuck if you think they are appropriating classic rock nor if you’re considering them the next big thing. Are they a female fronted Journey, or are they a punk rock Fleetwood Mac? These and other thoughts are not to be lobbied, and neither are their services for now.

This unsigned, DIY crew, is writing some of the hottest rock and roll on the planet and they are doing it without a rule book. Christina Halladay is a force that can amble between a dirty Disturbed growl and a Michael Jackson scream (i.e. “The Way You Make Me Feel”). Tiptoeing the tightrope of falsetto, head and chest like it’s all one voice, as it should be, but most don’t have the register that Halladay does. She’s a harmonica of vocal prowess, bending musical genres and writing lyrics that have us asking, “What did she just say?”

On “Moonstruck” I initially thought she was singing, “Moonstruck, by a dumb f-ck,” which was considerably more funny than, “Moonstruck, by my dumb luck,” which is what she is singing. Either way, you have to listen close, because she’s honest, open, and frank. The latter is what makes her endearing, and that sassy innocence in her voice is also what makes this group so likebale. Their sound is fresh, and you never hear ballads as tongue-and-cheek as this single.

I ain’t wasting time no more
I dont play no games/Don’t point no blame
I take my aim, I got no shame/I want your love, I want your love

-Christina Halladay on “dumbstruck”

But she also has

Like all good bands, drummer Evan Campbell puts this crew over the top with his incredible time keeping. Those cans pop, and the fills compliment Halladay’s howl. But I can’t say enough about the gorgeous musical melodies brothers Kyle (lead guitar, backing vocals) and Hart Seely (bass) create while grooving through each tune. There’s a bouncy, bluesy Kings Of Leon vibe that is turned on its head once you hear Christina’s voice. She does venture into Alabama Shakes territory, but her rasp is more akin to a younger Janis Joplin. With each listen I hear more, and continue to make headway into their early catalogue. They come through Chicago on the 27th, and 28th of April, stopping at Sleeping Village.