Connecticut Yankee

Connecticut Yankee's second album, Gravity, is a noble attempt at creating an original sound that stands out in today's crowded rock and metal world. Unfortunately, it is merely an attempt.\nThe band features lead vocals by Jason Croy, brother Johnny on bass, Mike Kiddle on lead and rhythm guitars, Troy Parker on guitar and Matt Howery on drums. Croy certainly gives it his all, singing each song with great intensity and passion. But the sound the band produces is not completely original.\nThe first track, "F=G(M1M2/D2)," the equation for gravity, is nothing more than 30 seconds of noise followed by a mumbled and echoed shouting of Sir Isaac Newton's "shoulders of giants" quote. Although awkward, this serves as an effective transition into the next track.\n"Gravity" is a simple song with bland lyrics. The bass, guitars and drums are given their chance to shine in this piece. It is reminiscent of Bon Jovi. Funny that he is one of Croy's influences. \nThe songs all have strong introductions musically, but the vocals act as a distraction, sounding more like a rehashing of older metal bands. \nThe songs sound the same vocally. Initially they sound different, but once intros play out and Jason chimes in, they all sound exactly the same. Variation would be a good thing for him. Most of the tracks are sung with such intensity that they are repetitive and monotonous.\nA couple of standout tracks include "Smooth Ride," sounding like a classic rock piece with Croy really shining through in the chorus. He seems to have fun with this song, which makes it pleasurable to listen to. "The Last Mile" starts off strong, and Croy keeps it strong, toning down his usual intensity a couple of notches. "This Love" is also enjoyable with a fun, catchy chorus.\nConnecticut Yankee is a band most likely better seen live then heard on CD. With so many metal and rock bands hitting the music scene today, personality and energy are what really matters. Energy it has down. Personality, on the other hand, doesn't come through on most of the tracks, but given an auditorium and an audience, look out.