Hailing from Dallas/Fort Worth Texas, Bryce Avary’s solo-project under the name of The Rocket Summer has basically become a household name. Keep reading to see a review of his newly released album Of Men And Angels.
Bryce Avary’s newly released full-length on 2.23.2010 with Island Def Jam Records Of Men And Angels was a long awaited project. Due to his extensive touring and some “behind-the-scene” industry problems, it took longer to release than Avary had been hoping for. But the fans say it was definitely worth the three year wait. Apologizing for the delay, Avary released the You Gotta Believe EP in November consisting of four songs off the full-length. One of the four, titled You Gotta Believe, was a big hit. The EP struck #1 on iTunes Alternative Albums, and #5 overall.
To say Avary’s new album Of Men And Angels is perfect would be a total understatement. From his deep heart-felt lyrics to the upbeat piano/guitar driven rock, the unique songs are so relatable. One fan says they enjoy the “candid and honest sincerity” of his music and the melodies that tie those words together. Tara I’m Terrible, one of my personal favorites is a slow song written to Avary’s wife of almost 5 years. Avary’s dedication to the album, his music and his ability to remain a down-to-earth musician is truly amazing. With empowering and inspiring lyrics that sing of purely hope and having faith you won’t regret purchasing the album. Of the 15 songs it’s so hard to pick favorites. But the first single You Gotta Believe, with the addition of a music video, containing 99% fan-participation which I couldn’t help but love it.
If you didn’t already know Bryce Avary really is a solo-project, literally. Everything you hear on the record is entirely his own work. From the songwriting, to the instruments, the recording and even the producing. You name it, and I guarantee you Bryce Avary does it. Bryce’s multi-instrumental talent lets him play piano, drums, guitar, bass, sing and even more. Of course during shows he brings out the live band because playing all the instruments at once would be nearly impossible.
I know this wasn’t entirely an Of Men And Angels review, but merely a Rocket Summer review in general. I hope this encourages you to really listen to and appreciate his beautiful music. Go out and buy his new album, whether it be at Best Buy or on iTunes, it’s a must have. I feel like most musicians play music for the love of it, and Bryce Avary pulls it directly from his heart. His songs have meaning, passion, love and so much more. And again I promise you, you won’t regret it.
