86 the Effort

Get Live

Self Released

(86 the Effort MySpace)

It still amazes me that after running The Pier for the past six months I am still being exposed to new bands that can take the reggae rock sound and create something unique and refreshing. 86 the Effort from Baltimore is another such band.

Get Live is the three-piece band’s debut release and it is a beauty. Rough ‘n’ raw and with alternative influences, this is one catchy as hell introduction to the band. Especially when your disc opens with one of the most immediately enjoyable songs I have heard in a long time, the suitably titled Enjoy.

Singer/guitarist Ryan Shiner’s vocal delivery is really what sets 86 the Effort apart from the rest of the pack. There is an emotional tenderness present there, which provides a powerful sense of engagement on songs like Just Love and Let’s Go Out. The only vocalist I can think of that I could compare it to would be Motion City Soundtrack’s Justin Pieree. I hope he doesn't mind the comparison.

The other essential element to 86 the Effort’s individuality is by just not sticking to alternative reggae and taking the chance of straying into more straight forward pop rock songs, like on Dry Your Eyes and the groove-based Lifestyle.

For me, the only frustrating thing about Get Live is its length at only nine songs, two of which are alternative versions. I guess 86 the Effort has delivered a debut album that falls under the old cliché ‘leave them wanting more.’ This is one band worth taking the 'effort' to check out.

Reviewed by Pilipo

Get Live can be purchased online HERE.