Hearing Aide: Eastern Electric ‘Suburban Daydreams’

Eastern Electric, alternative indie rock from Guilderland, NY, put out their latest album, Suburban Daydreams, on December 9, 2016. The album opens up with the title track, led by Will Burger’s dream-like voice, and sets the listener up for the rest of the album which can be characterized as emotional and dynamic. With a balanced blend of simple yet layered ambient instrumentation, Eastern Electric delivers an impactful performance on par with most signed, touring and recording acts. Immediately upon hearing their single “She’s a Quiet Driver,” I was greatly impressed by the talent and writing of this young band, but there was no way I could have anticipated how much I would enjoy the full album. With proper determination, I could easily see a larger audience listening to Eastern Electric.

Engineered, produced, mixed and mastered by Scoops Dardaris at the World Citizen Party House in Albany, NY, Suburban Daydreams clocks in close to thirty minutes in length. At first listen, all types of different influences are present. Tracks such as “I Don’t Know Yet” and “Raise My Fucking Grade” pull sounds from legendary rockers such as Nirvana and Brand New, especially between their bassist Ryan Keegan and drummer Jack Buttridge. Adding simple yet effective smoothness to the mix are Jackson Wolfe on guitar and Michael Beeche on keys.

I think the key element that gives Suburban Daydreams its x-factor is that none of the musicians featured on the album overplay. While the album certainly could have been longer and still kept the listeners attention, it is devoid of over complication or long, 80’s style guitar solos or extra sprinkled toppings, save a trumpet solo in “Whispering Goodbyes,” a violin lead in “Ignite,” and a harmonica featured in “Blue Eyes Cryin’.” Eastern Electric gets on their metaphorical stage, plays without giving a speech in between songs, finishes the set in short time, but leaves the metaphorical crowd in awe. Outside of metaphors, I’ve seen them live in Albany, NY and can attest to their professionalism and quality.

But Eastern Electric didn’t just put out a good album. They surpassed expectations set out for local bands at this stage in their career. They have my attention, and my respect, as I’m sure they will from many who enjoy groups such as City and Colour, Brand New and Cymbals Eat Guitars as well as many others. Personally, I’m looking forward to hearing their future work and seeing them live.

Key tracks: Suburban Daydreams, She’s a Quiet Driver, Blue Eyes Cryin’, Raise My Fucking Grade

Comments are closed.