Now On Tour Show Review 11/10/2006 Liquid Joe's
Posted November 20, 2006
http://www.nowontour.com/reviews/show/00119.php
Just another Friday night in Utah - with the exception that this particular Friday I had something to look forward to - a show featuring two of Utah's greatest local bands - Ayin and The New Nervous.
When The New Nervous took the stage, I was instantly locked into the music. I was amazed. Thrown by crescendos and taken back by diminuendos, every change seemed to match my evolving mood and somehow get to me more than ever before. The New Nervous is simply artistic. The lyrics are metaphors - describing a life that you seem to want to break out of without leaving entirely behind. Song by song, change by change, chord by chord - I was enthralled.
The unique voice and passion of singer Scott Shephard combined with deep jazz-like bass lines from Josh Dunn, ambient harmonies and chord progressions by Kellen Holgate and the sharp snare of Ryan Hone blend to create the perfect mood and tone that should be known only as The New Nervous.
Nervous indeed, after such a great set, I waited with even more anticipation for Ayin to push me past that edge I was on the verge of. Overwhelmed by possibilities, I let go and simply listened. Despite technical difficulties, Ayin swept the audience with obvious talent. Gracefully savoring their technical moments, each member stands distinct in style and talent.
Lead vocalist, Skaught Parry has a voice that sounds crisp and innocent and lyrics defined by great imagery and emotion. Bassist, Brad Verrier is one of the greatest bass players in all of Utah. Jamming in perfect-bass-stance using walking bass lines and chords combined with effects, Brad can easily shame the usual, ambient rock bass players who tend to only use two strings, if that. As a new addition to the band, guitarist Chris Doucet added additional ambiance and backed Skaught's guitar playing creating a more bold and complete sound. Last but not least, drummer Chris Hancock is always entertaining to watch. With a concise use of his snare and an array of time changes, Chris makes the life of a drummer look glamorous and incredibly easy.
Together, fusing into a one of a kind symmetry, Ayin is a band packed to impress any fan from any musical background.
By Caz Bevan
