Review: Solstate – Whispers and Tremors

Lead singer/guitarist Troy McKubre has much to be  proud of when it comes to his music. The sound of his latest band, “Solstate“, seems like a sonic boom of energy that  the musical masses have waited for.  The compilation of  heavy guitars, beautifully and well thought lyrics, and rich acoustics has characterized this band to have a big sound.  Solstate’s recent effort, “Whispers and Tremors”, released on November 11th, 2008 through their record label Sounds of Liberty/Universal, but it’s been a project in the making for McKubre and company, which includes Darren Crowe and Zorran Mendonsa (guitars), Dan Isley (bass), and Tristan Reilly (drums).  In April 2008, Mc Kubre traveled to LA to record two songs with famed producer Ben Grosse, who has worked with a countless number of bands such as Sevendust, Filter, and Alter Bridge.  McKubre and Grosse recorded two songs which included Solstate’s third single, “Tonight”, which has charted the Top 20 on Juices TV. Also they are gaining massive amounts of attention through various rock stations in New Zealand.  Currently, Solstate is taking part in the Great Indian Rock Festival that will take place from October 23rd through October 25th in Pune, Delhi, and Bangalore.

Flawlessly, Solstate’s songs will grab you by the shirt and demand your attention.  A great example is their song, “Free Your Mind”. Automatically the listener is given an ear full of heavy guitar work and extreme double bass pedal action that would leave any listener wanting more.  “Start Again”, starts out with a catchy, but technical drum rhythm that reveals the songs  true character.  Overall, the song is upbeat but it could easily blend in with much of what one would hear on an alternative radio station. One of the most uplifting tracks on the album, “Rise”, is a powerful song that has beautiful, lush guitar tones that compliment the song in every aspect.  Lyrically, this song is the most captivating of  all the songs because of its ability to convey to the listener that no matter what, there is always hope and the chance at redemption to rise above and achieve greatness.  Another impressive track, “Turn The Other Way”, displays the pure heart of Solstate’s talent. Upon first listening, the intro encompasses a similar sound to that of  the Dave Matthews Band with rich acoustics and beautiful instrumental arrangements.  The chorus speaks right to the soul and cuts through you leaving you with chills with lyrics like, “You would dream when you were not sleeping. Wake when you were not tired. Speak when you were not speaking. Then you turned the other away”.  These words are truly very skilful and show the pure essence of  emotion.   The best song on the entire album, “Tonight”, is probably one the best crafted songs that Solstate has created to date. This song embodies everything that would satisfy any listener or musician.  The song has something for everyone: catchy lyrics, up beat tempo, loud and crunchy guitar tones, and heavy drumming.   ”Tonight” is the ideal song for anyone that is seeking emotional solitude in the worst of times.

It seems that Toby McKubre’s vision has come to life and the hard work is paying off.  It is not every day that you find a band that can deliver such a powerful album while having originality. “Whispers and Tremors” is a product of will, strength, and hope for anyone who is willing to believe.  If you’re looking for something to captivate your emotions, Solstate is a band worthy of  investigating.

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