The Entrance Band

Guy Blakeslee has brought together his Entrance collaborators as a proper band, with a shocking moniker, The Entrance Band.

The Chicago based trio have created a follow up album that hijacks sounds of the past and reconstructs them for contemporary listeners.  The Entrance Band has a clear reverence for psych and classic rock as a whole.  The Entrance Band has also cultivated a sound though terse, due to the presence of only 3 members, but also enveloping, with its driving melodies and often haunting accompaniments.

The full album plays enjoyably over the course of the hour, though not without its highs and lows.  Guy’s voice sounds woefully offset on much of the tracks; he may have been reaching for something that evokes a plea or call to action, instead it can become simply distracting.  “MLK” is a clear example of Guy’s good intentions gone awry.  However “You’re So Fine” & “That Is Why” integrate Guy’s vocals to their potential.

The rhythms are performed wonderfully by Paz Lenchantin on Bass and Derek James on Drums.  There is nothing to complain with their capable hands keeping each track in control and serving Blakeslee’s penchant for guitar solos.  Guy’s  solos would be best served if there was a moderator in the studio.  Though Blakeslee is obviously talented, they lack the intricacy and variety to keep a listener fully engaged.

If the Entrance Band or Guy Blakeslee already has your ear, then pick up the album and look for the guys on one of their US tour dates.  Otherwise borrow it from a friend, take it for a drive and make your own decision.  I’d play this over a drive down the coast or cleaning the house, the hour would be best served with other activities in the mix.