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Kids In The Way
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Rock
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Frequently undermined by superficial glitz and marketing
gimmicks, today's rock acts have lost sight of the real, visceral feeling that
first inspired rock 'n' roll. Kids in the Way represents a new generation of
artists whose desire is to re-establish the integrity of rock. The band makes
great strides toward this goal on its sophomore Flicker Records release,
Apparitions of Melody.
Initially formed by lead vocalist David Pelsue, guitarist Nathan Ehman
and drummer Eric Carter in 1997, the band originated under a different name and
focus. With the addition of Austin Cobb and original bassist Nathan Hughes, who
has since left the group, Kids in the Way was born. During these early days,
Kids in the Way released a successful, self-titled EP that helped land the band
artist management and bigger shows, including a guest performance slot with
Audio Adrenaline, who eventually signed the act to Flicker Records.
The Hoosier State rockers soon dropped its debut album, Safe From the
Losing Fight, which earned Kids in the Way three Top 5 rock songs:
"Phoenix With a Heartache," "Hallelujah" and "We
Are." The record also won Kids in the Way tour opportunities with groups
like Audio Adrenaline, Relient K, Skillet and Pillar. While its rookie project
helped build a solid foundation, Apparitions of Melody will blow the doors off.
In keeping with the group's brilliant rock
sound, Apparitions of Melody pushes harder, deeper and darker into what rock
'n' roll and real life are all about. There's no posturing, over-thinking or
predictable cliches on this record. Co-produced by Sam Shifley and Nathan
Dantzler, Apparitions simply mixes edgy guitars, frantic energy, and engaging
lyrics to create a soundtrack for modern living.
"The album is a lot deeper," says Pelsue with confidence.
"In many ways, it's similar to what we've written before, but the lyrical
content and musicianship are much stronger. We tapped into something more
intense this time around. It just has a certain vibe."
Several songs on Apparitions of Melody deal with relationship issues,
and the band writes in a universal way that appeals to our common humanity.
"This Could Be the Song That Changes Your Heart" bleeds sorrow, while
"Blind Behind the Wheel" reflects on the 20/20 hindsight that can be
so frustrating after making a mistake. There's also the pain-strewn
"Breaking the Legs of Sheep," the rocket-inspired "Burt
Rutan," and a quirky cover of Tears For Fears' "Head Over
Heels." Even still, it's the title track that will rip your stereo
speakers wide open.
Featuring quick-paced guitars and a tense, urgent delivery, the title
track's sound reflects a philosophical struggle conveyed in its lyrics.
"This song simply implies that someday the music will die," muses
Pelsue. "Music is an ever-changing, ever-growing thing that people use up
and go through like clothing. As a band we are very aware of and accept that
reality. It is our hope and desire, however, that long after the music fades
from your head, its spirit will live on in you forever."
In contrast, the album's darker imagery might be tough to fade from
memory, which makes it all the more striking. For example, "Last Day of
1888" references the infamous Jack the Ripper slayings. "I wrote that
song immediately after the first record came out," says Pelsue. "We
were on a very mainstream tour, and people were looking at us somewhat
critically. I wanted to write a song about being misjudged, and I remembered
the story of this man who was incorrectly identified as Jack the Ripper . Eventually,
he was driven to suicide because of false accusations. I thought that was a
pretty bold example of misjudgment."
Apparitions of Melody captures a real life vibe that's both tangible
and sincere. Unhindered by any pretentiousness or predictability, Kids in the
Way demonstrates considerable growth and presents new songs that bond with
everyone wiling to let the energy take them higher. Rock music will still have
its glitz and gimmickry, but these Kids have its heart, and they wear it on
their sleeves with Apparitions of Melody.
Band Professional Life: 2002 — Present
Band Members:
Dave Pelsue - lead vocals
Nathan Ehman - guitar, vocals
Austin Cobb - guitar
Nathan Hughes - bass, vocals
Eric Carter - drums, vocals
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