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My freshman year of high school was an interesting one — new teachers, new sports, and a little band called The Verve Pipe. Going into my freshman year, The Verve Pipe released their album Villains. It had such hits as “Photograph,” “Cup of Tea,” “Villains,” and yes, “Freshmen.” Well, the Michigan rockers are back with their third major label release, Underneath.
The Verve Pipe went into the studio after disappointing results from their second major release. Their musical ability brought out one of the best CDs in 2001. Although the music charts don’t show it, trust me, it’s awesome.
The CD opens up with the song “Only Words.” Right from the start you can tell that the CD is going to be hard to take out of your player. The following song is the poppy-release “Never Let You Down.” This song was the first release off the album. It is an excellent radio song. Too bad it didn’t get played.
The songs are ordered in such a way that it keeps your attention at all times. Upbeat songs follow the slow songs, and the slow ones keep you wanting more.
A song that caught my attention was “Local Boys.” Brian Vander Ark describes the feeling of playing shows back home. It’s just a song that everyone can get into. A.J. Dunning does an excellent job on guitar — not only on this song, but also on all the other ones.
Finally, the song “Colorful” was featured in the movie Rock Star. Mark Wahlberg lip syncs it at the end of the movie.
Overall, this CD is as good as — if not better than — Villains. I would have to give it a 9 out of 10. Yes, it is just that DAMS AWESOME.
