New band breaks down walls

By Nicholas Ballasy

The classic-rock sound advanced by acts like The Beatles has been missing in modern music. However, there is one band that is single-handedly putting an end to this trend. The group is called The Redwalls, and its music can be appreciated by all generations.

The group is bringing old-school rock music to a new generation of listeners with its own unique twist. Often compared to The Beatles, The Redwalls is a four-piece band consisting of vocalist and guitarist Logan Baren, 22, vocalist and bassist Justin Baren, 20, vocalist and guitarist Andrew Langer, 20, and drummer Ben Greeno, 21. Many fans first thought the band members were from England when they saw the group play during its breathtaking performance opening for Rooney in 2003. However, the band actually got its start in Chicago.

The Redwalls’ mature sound — filled with energy, melodic effervescence and soulful ’60s influences — is uncommon for musicians their age. During its live performances, the band shines with its unique live sound, chops, tight pants and suit jackets.

After learning how to play many classic songs as a band early in life, The Redwalls were able to craft De Nova, which consists of hits influenced by bands like The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd.

De Nova brings rock music to a new level. The opening track, “Robinson Crusoe,” gets the album off to an excellent start. The guitar parts are solid and the trumpets are a nice addition. Logan and Justin’s vocals are powerful throughout the duration of the song.
“Thank You” is the first single off the album. Its melody is catchy and the acoustic guitar fits perfectly into the song’s arrangement.

“Front Page” opens up with a reporter discussing the Israeli and Palestinian situation. The band gets political on the track with the lyrics: “Holding up the bank in Belgrade / She lost her mind / Between the battle lines / And the telephone rings / A bell rung out / As they talk about / Sixteen kids gone in a school yard / The papers read, she shakes her head.” The guitar solo in the middle of the song adds strong emotion to the piece.

“Build A Bridge” has a chorus that will replay the song in your head, cheer you up and make you forget The Redwalls are only in their early 20s.

“Falling Down” is a scathing attack on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), demonstrating a rougher side of The Redwalls. The song has a great deal of meaning because it was inspired by the day the FCC chewed out the band and the Chicago radio station they were on when Logan used one expletive during a show.

Although The Redwalls haven’t reached the commercial success other bands have, the band has a bright future. The Redwalls cares only about creating strong, thoughtful music. The group is made up of young but mature musicians who are likely to be around creating classic music for generations to come.