By Syed T. Ali
Heyoka at the Aztec Theater, was absolutely stunning. The audience packed the theater and spread into the photography/security area. |
By Lisa Sullivan
Read full here. From the opening notes you know this album is going to be unlike anything you've heard before. The record starts out almost mournfully with Thunderdreamer, soft flute underlying lyrics that decry the fate of the Native Americans. But then, suddenly, the song turns into an all out rock jam reminiscent of Styx with heavy synthesizers and soaring vocal melodies. Just as is the case with the first song, this is true of the entire album; the musical styles are all over the place and completely unpredictable. This creates a highly unique texture that makes this project a true joy to behold. As with other major bands that came onto the scene in the mid-70s, the sounds of Heyoka are much bigger than the five members. This is arena rock at its best, shredding guitars, driving bass and dumbeats, and intricate interwoven layers of keyboards and flute. Not to mention the amazing vocal range of Michael Grothues, who, sadly, passed in 2012. His range is amazing, carrying many songs in traditional rocker formula and then soaring to heights that only could be reached by the likes of Geddy Lee or Rik Emmett. The other players are equally talented with Gerardo Ramirez on drums and keyboards, Dito Garcia and David Alcocer II on guitars, and Pat Hood on bass. Together they form a true powerhouse. |
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May 2016
AuthorSyed T. Ali, AKA Dtaws is a Bangladeshi Texan living in the Golden Age of Information. |