Winters Warm
Winters Warm, although employing a completely false name in regard to their hometown, bring you completely truthful songs as a soundtrack to their lives. A three-piece hailing from Cleveland, Winters Warm is making a name for themselves, as heard on their debut EP, Crooked Road. This indie pop EP will be released on Thu 2/3 at the Happy Dog – attendees receive it for free.
Songs of uncertainty, betrayal and love fill the four song EP with more heavy than light. Musically, it is a mellow listen with smooth transitions and distinct guitar riffs. Each song holds a different sound, ranging from a White Stripes comparison with abrupt stair-like transitions in “First Song” to the drum-reliant “Crooked Road.”
The vocals are relaxed and at times nearly monotonous. For a significant portion of the music, these are the vocals that fit the songs and bring everything together, but there are still times when vocal variation could bring more life to the songs. Lyrically the words flow well, conveying melancholy and frustration. “Control, unviable. My passion – my desire – commands unconsciously.”
Winters Warm began as the collaboration of cousins Joe Yezbak and Corey Keller, now with support from bass player Erik Kemme. Having been together for only a little over a year, the band already has tight songs and a consistent sound. The EP flows easily song to song without identity lapses or musical surprises. Although still in need of the distinguishing characteristics to really set it apart, Crooked Road is a well-done debut and worth the 16 minute time investment.
Get your indie rock fill this Thu 2/3 at the Happy Dog for the EP’s release. Winters Warm will be playing alongside Pittsburgh’s Triggers and Akron-based Shivering Timbers. The Crooked Road EP will be free at the door! Learn more about Winters Warm at http://MySpace.com/winterswarm.
Laurie Wanninger is a Cleveland convert, having lived in Pittsburgh for 20 years. After attending John Carroll University, she was sold on the city and now lives, works and breathes Cleveland. Spare time is spent DJing Music for Your Laundry List at WJCU 88.7, bicycling, going to local concerts and dreaming of microbrews and National Parks.