She Wants Revenge’s third album, Valleyheart musically demonstrates the band’s maturity and growth as musicians. Comprised of Justin Warfield (vocals, guitar and keyboards) and Adam Bravin (bass guitar, keyboards, guitar, drum machine, percussion, programming and vocals), the San Fernando Valley-based duo waited four years to create their latest effort—but good things are always worth waiting for and Valleyheart is definitely one of those things!
As a loyal and faithful She Wants Revenge fan since their self-titled debut album back in 2006, anything the band does is great in my eyes. Having already previewed some of the new tracks from Valleyheart at prior shows earlier this year, I already knew what to expect.
Valleyheart isn’t filled with hardcore indie/electro rock tunes as past efforts, but is, nonetheless, danceable and enjoyable. Tracks are more melodic and have this relaxed vibe to them that sort of puts you in a very mellow mode. A serious changeup from their debut tracks, which are raging with electro beats and upbeat tempos.
Paying homage to the culture of their San Fernando Valley roots, the duo intricately intertwine romantic poetry over haunting riffs with an ’80’s dance flair that makes for a unique and interesting mix…or better put, fucken great music!
It starts off cool and collective with “Take the World” and its instrumental intro that’s at least 30 seconds or more before Warfield’s vocals narrate a musical story. Mesmerizing keyboards trickle in and out, while the bass remains hard and solid, proving to be a powerful track to begin the album. A great entry into their musical journey of their interpretation of the “Valley.”
Still prominent on all tracks is Warfield’s amazing vocals, but this album really showcases his lyrical abilities, which can best be heard on “Not Just A Girl.” It’s a sweet lullaby-like song that makes for the perfect love jam. If you close your eyes, it’s almost as if you can picture Warfield serenading you (well, at least for me). It’s a tender tune that deserves a repeat play!
“Reasons” is a bit more reminiscent of older tracks with its faster beats and Warfield’s distinctive cool, edgy vocals. It’s catchy and will make you tap your foot and nod your head to its beat. “Up In Flames” is the guy’s ode to their hometown as it describes canyons, the Santa Ana winds, freeways and Valley girls. It’s also one of the faster tracks that’ll make you want to get your dancing shoes and tear up the floor thanks to its stomping bass and electrifying guitar riffs.
Valleyheart may not be the She Wants Revenge fans may have fell in love with, but after a good and thorough listen, you won’t care and will in fact LOVE their new sound (which isn’t too drastically different from before).
Words: Kristie Bertucci
Artist: She Wants Revenge
Album: Valleyheart
Label: Five Seven Music
Release Date: May 24, 2011
