STREETWISE’S NEW ‘APPETITE FOR UNITY’ EP IS REFRESHINGLY VINTAGE
There is a thirst within current scenes to find the perfect balance between new and vintage—and it seems StreetWise has found a proper happy medium. They are unwilling to relinquish anything that is probably working for them to conform; thankfully, this works incredibly well for the group, as their ‘Appetite For Unity’ ep touches bases that people have seemingly forgotten. There is a classic energy to it, perhaps in their determination to allow songs to last longer than the current standard 2-and-a-half-minute range or their commitment to upholding vintage rock n’ roll.
Starting with “On My Own,” a funky bass and guitar lead seamlessly carry audiences into the first melody. Raymond Castronovo is a profound guitarist, and this shines through right from the jump. This song gives a similar energy to hits like “Cat Scratch Fever,” which won’t escape your head after one listen. The same kind of grit made Deep Purple’s “Smoke On The Water” unforgettable. Years from now, kids in guitar shops may be strumming along to “On My Own” similarly. Contemporary iterations of vintage classics are always necessary since paying homage in this way is the only way to keep these sounds alive. It is refreshing to hear a song that packs a punch while continuing for 4.5 minutes. That is almost unheard of, but “On My Own” would do well as a radio single.
Next, “Estella” is a sweet love song; following an inspired doo-wop format, the mix is incredibly nostalgic, even for those who may have missed that period of music. These vintage sounds will remind most people of somebody they love, as the energy is contagious. It is earnestly endearing in a way that might be missing in many current music, focusing on less-sweet messaging. Plus, sonically, the arrangement of this song is charming. The contrast between the two vocalists complements each other nicely, allowing each performer’s natural talents to shine. The chord progression alone tends to do it for me as a musical theatre nerd and appreciator of the classics. Once again, Castronovo’s guitar playing stands out, making it feel like the song is way shorter than its 5-minute duration.
“New Beginnings” offers the most movement of all the EP’s songs. The introductory guitar riff is mixed in well with the layered lead vocals. There is some unique reverb sprinkled throughout, and it makes me wonder if StreetWise went full-method on this track, using vintage gear to encapsulate the overall vibe they’re going for, honestly. These guitar tones are immaculate, giving a nod to what made many of us fall in love with the instrument in the first place. Combining these elements with organ sounds was an exciting choice, adding depth to the mix. Songs like “New Beginnings” insinuate that StreetWise is becoming a force to be reckoned with.
The catchiest song of the is, hands down, “The Way It’s Supposed To.” This danceable groove is impressively arranged to get live audiences on the dance floor. The rhythm is hard to resist, as Castronovo’s high energy is noticeably building as the song continues. His guitar playing is also the tightest in this one, with his solo towards the bridge reigning supreme as his most passionate. One can always aim to be a clean and accurate guitarist, but once you learn to incorporate emotion into your playing, you’re as good as gold.
Finally, the ep closes with social commentary in “What’s Wrong With The Human Race.” However, the commentary is not overplayed but rather a call for the EP’s primary goal: unity! 80s synth leads introduce the song, backed by an upbeat, driven vocal arrangement. It’s evoking 80’s/90’s sci-fi, perhaps calling back to a time when the songwriters felt more unity, encouraging listeners to travel back to “the good ‘ole days” for a moment. The mix of voices throughout the song gives an added perspective, guiding the lyrics while offering them more profound meaning. Overall, this was a great close-out to the ep, rounding out the core messaging without being overbearing or forced. Plus, many cool sounds are being integrated into the track to fulfill the nostalgic sonic goalposts the group has established.
StreetWise has an audience, even in a fast-paced, saturated music scene. Many crave the exact vintage vibes the group is going for, especially with how each song is mixed and arranged. The group would do well in a live setting, developing new fans by frequenting spots that cater to their target demographic. StreetWise can potentially become local heroes if they persist with the same conviction throughout the ‘Appetite For Unity’ EP.