Staring Into Nothing

Power is the stunning new release from Staring Into Nothing, a power rock trio from Orange County, California. Beginning with the premiere single “Puritans”, the album explores the complicated territory of corruption, abuse of power and oppression. Anchored in solid songwriting structure and a compelling sense of melody, I’m reminded of Rush and Marillion. And the lyrics address social and political issues in a direct manner that doesn’t shy away from probable criticism.

“School Daze” spoke to me after having raised a child in the current public-school systems. Describing the issues with overly medicated, overly analyzed children, the song features some piercing lyrics. Anthem-like in nature, the angelic backing vocals soar over the mellow voice of Steve Rogers. Savannah Rogers shares lead vocal duties with Steve, most notably on “Heads Or Tails”, while still blazing away on extended guitar solos. Along with percussionist Kurt Barabas, the band tackles the current security state in “Big Brother”, a hook-laden tune that blends all their talents into a cohesive unit.

While the album features many shorter straight-ahead rockers, the 18 minute “Towers” is the centerpiece.  Awash in synth backdrops, this epic starts slowly with some introductory guitar musings to set the anxious mood. As the song progresses, Savannah Rogers delivers vibrant guitar soloing under the solemn piano melody while her voice emotionally takes us back to 2011.  Due to the overarching theme of the tunes, the album can sometimes be negative.  And the concluding song “The Gates of Hell” doesn’t alleviate that feeling.

In the works are the follow-up albums Love and War, therefore I’m hoping for a ray of sunshine at the end of the road.  Nonetheless, Power is an excellent collection of progressive rock songs that demands to be heard.  As a result, for the lover of socially conscious and politically-charged music, it will be hard to beat this powerful work.  You may either love it or hate it based on your political persuasion, but I hope you’ll listen based on its musical merits.

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Staring Into Nothing combines the stark social commentary of Steve Rogers on keyboards, splitting lead vocal duties with guitarist, Savannah Rogers, and Kurt Barabas on bass and guitar. The Orange County, CA trio craft songs that delve deeply into dark themes.  These include the abuse of power, the struggle of romantic relationships, and the devastation of war.  Clear and melancholic vocal melodies proclaim the band’s messages, and are emboldened by atmospheric guitar.  Also, the keyboards swell from proggy to robustly rhythmic. Staring Into Nothing is an exploration of mind, music and boundaries, fusing rock artistry with brazen meaning. 

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