Review of The Tips at Vinyl 5.15.09
Location: Atlanta, GA
Sample if you like: Rolling Stones, Waylon Jennings, Toots & The Maytals, Allman Brothers
The recently formed Atlanta locals, The Tips, have only been around since January 2009 and have already begun making a name for themselves across the Southeast, specifically Atlanta and Knoxville. They claim to be a genreless band with influences ranging from 30 years ago to the early 90’s, incorporating blues, country, jam, and classic rock appeal. Hearing what they sound like and actually hearing them are two extremes however. With a Mastodon show going on next door at Center Stage, The Tips received an overflow of new audience, mostly metal fans, all of whom took to their sound. Even at 9pm for the start of their set, Vinyl was packed, and from the first song to the last their crowd was hyped. More than once was I approached and relayed the message that this better be a good review.
Joe Marlow, vocals and guitar, has his own unique stage presence. His soulful voice radiates as his body does the “jiggle shakies” with a little dance. Although songs like “Baby’s Got Your Eyes” and “Country Boy” have a distinctive country flare, his voice is not whiny but foot tappin’ inspiring. Infact, all of their songs are very easy to dance to, as proven by a majority of the front row crowd. “The War” featured less country and more of a classic rock taste, not overly produced, but with appropriate accents and soulful keys courtesy of Brent Sandel. One of their new songs, “Gotta Have More” has a bluesier vibe put picks up the pace during the chorus with a perfectly placed guitar and harmonizing back up vocals.
There were several personal favorites and crowd pleasers that night. “Dagmar” received a great response thanks to the racing keys and jamming tunes. “Country Boy” encouraged whistles and mass dancing across the pit. The twangy meets groovy feel of this song makes it near impossible to stand still. By far “My Girl” was truly their best foot forward. The country-pop guitar jams out during the bridge, while the catchy chorus, “My girl, left me…” is instantly memorable. Matt Cahill, drummer, whipped out his harmonica for a musical breakdown that induced whistles and cheers.
Their crisp, tight sound is further complimented by their onstage appearance. Each member was dressed in suit and tie, fine tuning their image. If a mistake was made that night it was unclear to myself or the rest of the venue. The Tips are currently touring here and there across the Southeast, and have plans to release an album in mid-June. The album which is almost complete will be called “Indigent”. While several indie labels have shown interest, they are currently unsigned. For a show with great jams and a guaranteed good time, check out The Tips when they visit your town next.
~Kris Melton
RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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The Tips are:
Guitar/ Vocals- Joe Marlow
Drums/ Harmonica/ Vocals- Matt Cahill
Keyboards/ Vocals- Brent Sandel
www.myspace.com/thetipsmusic
thetipsmusic@gmail.com
Popularity: 31%
