No.5229
GAJOOB Review by Bryan Baker:
Russ Stedman’s “This Is Normal” is a musical journey that refuses to conform to the ordinary, making it anything but ‘normal.’ Released on June 10, 2022, this album is a testament to Stedman’s prowess as a musician, blending heavy guitar power with cathartic vocals.
From the opening track “Trauma,” Stedman creates a wall of bristling guitar sound that captures your attention and holds it throughout the album. His vocals, raw and emotive, are like a shout from a mountaintop (or from caged mind), adding layers of intensity to the music.
The album includes standout tracks like “Animals” and “Normal,” each showcasing Stedman’s ability to craft songs that are both powerful and engaging. “Bird Pecking” and “Real Eyes” continue this trend, offering ratcheting shifts in tone and strain that keep the tension tightening throughout, to the bitter, bitter end.
“Struggle” and “Calvin” delve deeper into the emotional landscape that Stedman is exploring, while “Hopeless” leaves you gasping and “F.Y.V.M.” is a rant on the BushBushTrump death spiral. The final track, “Today,” serves as a fitting conclusion. Its major-chord dressing a medicated future, at least for today.
Written, produced, and performed by Russ Stedman himself, “This Is Normal” was recorded at home between October 2021 and May 2022. It’s is a potent mix of heavy guitar and vocals that offers an immersive listening experience. It’s an album that deserves a place in the rotation of any fan of intense, emotive music.
Media: Digital.
Visit Stedmusic
Bandcamp URL: https://russstedman.bandcamp.com/album/this-is-normal
