Tap Root - Gift

Musicians from the state of Michigan have a strong tradition of extending musical boundaries: from the 60's and the sounds of Motown (Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Four Tops, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder), to the sounds of Rock in the 70's (Bob Seger, Ted Nugent), to the sounds of Pop in the 80's (Madonna), to extending the boundaries of Rap today (Eminem, Kid Rock). So it should come as no surprise to learn that the band making waves lately with its musical experimentation is from Michigan. The real question is will their experimentation lead somewhere?

Though their CD was just released in June, Tap Root has already been called by some as one of "[t]he most promising new bands in America." They've been doing plenty of touring on their own and will also be on the OzzFest tour. "So what?" you say. "I've heard it all before; the hype is never justified." But I'm here to tell you that Tap Root is not a marketing gimick, they're getting publicity the old fashioned way - they're earning it.

Gift is an experimentation in music that varies from loud to soft, ferocious to melancholy, smooth R&B-like vocals to angry screams. They describe themselves as "Heavy Alternative," which is probably a sufficiently vague category that they don't have to worry about being pigeonholed. Taking inspiration from Rush, Faith No More, and Tool, Tap Root has a raw, emotional, and somewhat grungey sound that sometimes surges and sometimes flows. Tap Root is at their Heavy Alternative best on tracks like 'Smile' and 'Again & Again' where the aggression is relentless, but you'll find something on almost every track to be interested in.

The essence of Tap Root is the emotional vibes that emanate from lead vocalist Stephen Richards who snarls like a wolf in between lush, melodic vocals to create a unique sound. From pleading to growling, Richards sincerity is never in doubt. The thoughtful lyrics he sings center on discovering one's innate strength and inner wisdom. The lyrics continuously pound away at one central theme: embracing one's individuality.

As a Power / Progressive Metal fan, I admit that I didn't know what to think of Tap Root at first. It took more than a dozen listens for me to formulate an opinion of it. While no one knows if Tap Root is headed for a Hero's Welcome or a Dead End, one thing is perfectly clear: they're blazing their own path.

Take a leisurely walk through Gift and see what you think of the scenery. You may or may not like it, but I guarantee that, at a minimum, you won't complain "I've heard it all before."