OdESSA - Motel Machine- Single
28 Mar 2007 // A review by johnsoncraigsbc
After Oak Park Avenue, and with hits like ‘Sugar Pop’, ‘Promises’ and ‘Bring Your Money Back’, I was left wondering if OdESSA would become yet another one album wonder along with the likes of The Darkness and Jet. After bringing exciting, fresh material to the Wellington music scene, and along with a killer live performance, what could they do next to try and maintain this new found success?
Matt Pender delivers good vocals, with even better dance moves, and with Dan Ryland now on guitar could we expect a cool new sound from the reformed OdESSA group? Sadly, no. With their new single ‘Motel Machine’ it seems as though they have stuck to their original ways and produced yet another single which could’ve easily been included on Oak Park Avenue. I enjoy hearing artists’ second albums that have shown a maturing in song writing and those which establish themselves as quality musicians. I must input though they do seem to have become less concerned with the typical song structure, and a lengthy minute long bass solo is quite refreshing.
The first time I heard their new single ‘Motel Machine’ I was unimpressed. It sounded like just another OdESSA end of album track, but the more I have listened to it the more I have pictured it going off at one of their live shows. The bass solo and vocal segments open it up for an electric live performance, which I hope is not lost with the introduction of Dan Ryland.
Don’t get me wrong, Oak Park Avenue was fantastic, and ‘Motel Machine’ is definitely growing on me, but I am eagerly awaiting the release of their second full length album, because I hope they can prove to me and the rest of their large Wellington audience that they indeed can produce another fresh and exciting album.
Craig Johnson
About OdESSA
OdESSA have a solid reputation as one of New Zealand’s most exciting live bands. Their addictive blend of Rock RnB, electrifying grooves and phenomenal energy are sure to grab your attention.
OdESSA kick along the dusty centre-line where Rock 'n' Roll and R 'n' B first cross-mutated, with memorable songs played inside out – night after night.
OdESSA is a fluid and inventive rhythm section, with searing licks and dirty guitar grooves, polished off with strong, soulful vocals – playing wild to hot, sweaty crowds going crazy in a heady swirl of streetlights and hormones – exactly the way it's supposed to be. The 2021 edition has the addition of a horn section and keyboards.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for OdESSA