The joyful and inspirational 'Vol. 1 EP'
Posted November 20, 2020
By JakeFrederick_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need to Know
In the last three years, since their last album, Manic Drive has spent a lot of time performing at tours, such as Winter Jam and the self-produced One Night Music Circus Tour. This unforeseen pandemic season has taken brothers Shawn and Michael Cavallo off the road and allowed them to dedicate time to new music. This year has brought joyous and tragic life events, some of which the brothers share in Episode 54 of the NRT Now Podcast. All of this is poured into the songwriting and production of their incredible new EP, Vol.1.
What It Sounds Like
While we didn't get the Irish folk fusion that we talked about in the podcast episode, this EP blends sounds from different decades and styles into sounds that are uniquely Manic Drive. This EP splits between the foundation of their signature high-energy pop and melodic ballads. On top of those foundations, they pull in elements from electronic dance music (EDM), the '80s, and the '90s. Each song on this EP shows an attention to detail that highlights the best of each musical influence.
Spiritual Highlights
The storytelling in the EP's lyrics paints pictures of spiritual truths. "Pinky Swear" talks about God's love that nothing can stop and makes everything else pale in comparison. "Champion" talks about fighting strong in a fight that's already been won. "Thank God I'm Alive" talks about an appreciation for the life God has given us and peace for those who have gone before us.
Best Song on the Record
This is a toss-up for me. I love the high energy and the dance vibes of "Sugarcoated," but "Thank God I'm Alive" made me pause and start the song over. The Cavallo brothers wrote "Thank God I'm Alive" for their mother who passed away earlier this year. I could hear the emotion in this song. Listening to it was like watching friends walk through a moment of healing.
For Fans Of
Family Force 5
Final Word
One thing I love about Manic Drive is that they have an energy and excitement that shines in their music. In a year that's brought tremendous joy, tremendous sorrow, and unforeseen curveballs to the Cavallo brothers, their joy for life and faith in God shines through this incredible EP. View All Music And Book Reviews By JakeFrederick_NRT | View JakeFrederick_NRT's Profile
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