Review: meyerman “Who Do You Think You Are”

Pop rock/powerpop
The brainchild of guitarist and vocalist Theo Meyer, the meyerman raises the ante on the quality of modern powerpop to spring out of New Jersey. Along with his bandmates, Jeff Preischel on bass and vocals, Mike Eckhart on lead guitar and vocals, and Rob Barden on drums, these guys prove you don’t need facial hair, tattoos, or ironic T-shirts in order to rawk. The record is so consistently good, and band chemistry so electric, that it’s hard to believe ““Who Do You Think You Are” is a debut album. Bolstered by the production talents of Kurt Reil (Grip Weeds, The Smithereens), “Who Do You Think You Are” makes it evident that meyerman thinks they are bona fide rock stars.

Relying on the tried and true method of encasing a sweet center with crunchy power chords, meyerman cook up all kinds of ear candy. One of the themes explored on the record is music and the music business itself, underscoring the commitment these guys have to their craft – music is truly in their blood. Meyer’s vocals are modestly scratchy with a nasal delivery, making the band sound like The Thornbirds or even Enuff Z’Nuff at times.

The band sets the stage with a "ready to rock" intro that surely kicks off their live set as well. Then they dive straight into earnest pop rock with the memorable “Permission To Rock You” before coming up with the most radio-friendly serving on the record, “Get To You”. “Tour Of Japan” is sure to be on the playlist of any musician. “New Direction” is another astute satire parodying the music biz, but the song features such delectable melodies that it will find universal appeal. Meyerman doesn’t slow things down much, but they do a good job of it when they do…check out “Indecision and Inertia”. The CD continues to end strong with a trio of snappy tunes including “Metalface” (love the reference to the Quiet Riot mask), “Bitter End”, and “Elephants”.

Catchy riffs, spot on harmonies, and sugary melodies – what more could you want? “Who Do You Think You Are” is a nonstop thrill ride from start to finish. I can’t see how this one can’t make my best of 2011 list.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13

meyerman – Facebook