Amplified Heat-How do you like the sound of that

2007
Arclight Records


This Austin, Texas based trio are comprised of the Ortiz brothers with Jim on guitar and vocals, Chris on drums and Gian on bass. Chris and Jim have actually been playing in bands together for almost twenty years. The band member have a love of blues, boogie and some heavier influences as well. The ones that stand out the most to me are Blue Cheer, Hendrix and perhaps early ZZ top. At times the music sounds like it could have come straight from 1971 or so. In fact it wasn't until maybe the fourth track that you could begin to hear some more modern influences mixed in. At times the vocals contain a more modern flavor and it largely works, but at times might be a bit below the music. There are also bits and pieces of the music that let us know that these guys have heard some hardcore albums at some point as well. The playing and especially the rhythm section are amazingly tight for the bulk of the record. It's an album that pulled me immediately with it's huge grooves and easy feel. It's obvious that they have spent quite a bit of time in basements, garages, clubs and the like sharpening their skills. My biggest concern is that they do stick so much to a retro sound and personally I would like to see more blending of modern influences. I think they need to define themselves a little more so they don't get labeled as being just a "retro band". However they obviously have the talent to do more so they may on their way to establishing themselves.

Check out their site here.
http://www.amplifiedheat.com/