So much music; so little time. Every once in a while, during my trudge through the plethora of musical mediocrity, I happen upon a rock band that works just a little bit harder to put together their product. These are not the stellar, internationally dominant super-groups, but rather those who carve themselves a niche a few feet above the masses. Case in point, Joker.
The product is a full-length, self-titled release drenched in vocal splendor and palatable arrangements. I love when every member of a band contributes to the voice tracks. Thick vocal harmonies are far more powerful than any screaming guitar solo or thundering drum attack. And when you mix them all together, as Joker does on cuts like "I Want Love," "Somewhere In Time" and "Say Yeah," you just can't lose.
The intricacies of this recording also propel Joker to "ahead of the crowd" status. On most records finding their way to my door these days, one or two listens is all it takes to hear everything going on in the production. On the fifth and sixth passes with Joker, I was still picking out new subtle splashes of guitar and vocal color that added to the tapestry without trying to steal the spotlight. These, along with the effective, prudent use of keyboards, indicate this band's ability to focus on the final product without feeding their egos by fighting for the edge in the mix or more solo time than the next guy.
Joker are not poetic or creative genii. Neither are they virtuoso musicians. If they were, then there would be nothing preventing them from super-group stature. Nonetheless, this band has too much going for it to be denounced. Next time you're faced with the choice between Joker and any other unknown band, place you bets on the wild card.
See Joker at Hammerjacks on January 13 for an all ages show with Skin & Bones. Don't let your luck run out by missing this performance!