Lovedrug - Pretend You're Alive
Reviewed by be2
The debut album from Ohio-based Lovedrug is nothing less than excellent. The entire album is chock full of exploratory, full-fledged, distinctive soundscapes. Pretend You’re Alive combines the distinctive high-pitched vocals of lead singer Michael Shepard with well-constructed big sound. The bio on the band’s website sums up my feelings on this album: “A unique crossbreed of art and accessibility, powerful melodies are driven by smartly crafted lyrics of truth, intrigue, love, death, and damn near everything in between.” “Blackout” is an emotionally laced song about heartbreak and the yearning to let go. Shepard reaches an apex by crooning the catchy chorus, “She’ll save her life for something good . . . Oh yeah, for something good.” “RockNRoll” is a classic pop gem that covers all of the pop sensibilities one might suspect, while title track, “Pretend You’re Alive,” is an honest, intense piano ballad. Lovedrug has a unique sound that will take with anyone who appreciates the effort and intensity explored throughout this album. [www.lovedrugmusic.com]