Reviews

Greta Van Fleet: Black Smoke Rising EP Review

Greta Van Fleet, a band sitting just below the radar, can count the days to their stardom if this EP is any indication of their potential. The band is comprised of three brothers; Sam, Jake and Josh Kiszka, and drummer Danny Wagner, hailing from the quiet (not for long) midwest town of Frankenmuth, Michigan. Their four song EP, titled Black Smoke Rising, is proof that the classics stand the test of time. Their sound channels blues infused classic rock greats the likes of Led Zeppelin. A hell of a company to keep.

With echoing chants and a hard biting electric riff, Greta Van Fleet opens the door to their youthful yet soon to be burgeoning musical world. This comes to the tune of the first track, dubbed “Highway Tune.” The chants give way to a soulfully seductive howl by lead singer Josh, leaving you spiraling down memory lane, as the name Robert Plant comes to mind. The track is reminiscent of the early Zeppelin days and the raw unadulterated shrieks found on Communication Breakdown. “Safari Song” is equally upbeat and chock full of shrieks and moans to send chills down your back. The band turns the dial down on the next track, “Flower Power.” Prominent keys and mandolin give way to delicately enunciated lyrics for a powerful ballad. The title track, “Black Smoke Rising”, showcases a slightly different sound on guitar and vocals, echoing a young Ann Wilson. All in all, they manage to pack as much power and versatility into four songs as humanly possible, leaving us begging for more.

The band has chosen to release small EP teasers for the near future, with Black Smoke Rising being the first in the series. With music this tantalizing, a refreshing classic rock homage, this approach recalls a cliffhanger at the end of a striking short story. With the demand for more sure to be on the rise, the band will need to fill the void by hitting the road and showing the world what they’ve got to offer. And it’s a whole damn lot.

The Review: 9/10

The Big Hit

– Highway Tune

Review by Don Tice

Buy the album: Amazon

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