This act seems to put out a lot of music, and I’ve reviewed quite a bit. This set has a nice blend of fresh and vintage sounds. While some things here work better than others, nothing really falls flat. I think this might be my favorite release from Downtown Mystic.
This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2025 Volume 2. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2025.
Track by Track Review
The Wish
With plenty of classic rock and pop hooks in the mix, this is a strong, rocking tune. It has a vintage sound at play, but also a freshness to it. I’m not reminded of anyone artist, but comparisons to Tom Petty, The Beatles and more are appropriate.
One Step Closer
This is more alternative and punk leaning. It still has some classic sound in the mix, but is less hook-laden and rawer and punchier.
Better Day
Landing somewhere between the first two cuts, this has both an edgy, raw rock and roll angle and some riffs that call to mind vintage rock.
One More Chance
Not a big change from the last tune, this one has some killer guitar work to elevate it.
Shade of White
There is a healthy helping of rockabilly and old school rock and roll at play here. The guitar is king on this tune. It’s a fun one and lends some variety.
Tomorrow’s Clown
Another solid rocker, this has both classic sound and alternative rock built into it. It’s not a standout, but it works well.
Love Light
I really dig the guitar presence on this. The cut overall doesn’t work as well for me as some of the others do.
History
Now, this is a great rock and roller. It’s classic in nature and so much fun. It really feels like something that could have come out during the 1970s.
Modern Ways
Here we get a tune that continues in that classic rock sound. The track feels like a 1970s version of a Chuck Berry tune. It’s a standout that’s one of my favorites here.
Some Day
This is more of a soft rock piece with plenty of roots music in the mix. I like it quite a bit, and it does provide some variety, but it’s not a highlight.
Lost and Found (Bonus Track)
I dig the cool rocking guitar solo on this. The tune beyond that is sort of generic alternative rock and roll. It’s not bad, but it’s also not a highlight. Then again, it is a bonus track.
Read The Signs (Bonus Track)
Closer to 1970s blues rock, this is a potent tune. It has some great guitar work, and is actually one of the standouts for me.