The last year and a half has been a period of evolution for South Atlanta’s Unusual Suspects. The band has transformed from a one-man signer/songwriter show into a full-on rock band. Phonograph (2004), the new EP from The Unusual Suspects, is a strong showing of the band’s versatility across the rock genre.
Drawing influences from groups like Sublime, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bob Marley, and Flickerstick, The Unusual Suspects have crafted a beach-tinged sound that appeals to music fans young and old alike.
Phonograph opens with matt’s somber voice over the crackling of a 45 record and a single electric guitar in “Computer Café Shootout.” Once the band kicks in, the song’s intensity carries through to the very end. Songs like “The Grove” and “Carolina’s Galaxy” showcase the band’s softer, mellower side, while “Thai-Dye” relies on a 1960’s vibe similar to bands like Jan and Dean, J. Frank Wilson and The Cavaliers, and The Beach Boys.
While the record is a great introduction to the band, their fun and energetic live show is where they continue to generate a buzz. The band is known for constantly coming up with ways to surprise the fans and keep them entertained. They are also very down-to-earth, and are always willing to stay after the show to meet and party with all of the stragglers.
The band has played 99X’s “Unplugged in the Park” and gotten radio-play from 96 Rock in Atlanta, all without ever having an official release. Now, with the release of Phonograph in late 2004, The Suspects are poised to make some real good noise in the coming months.
Rock
Background/Bio
