BLUPHORIA – “COLUMBIA” & “AIN’T GOT ME” – SINGLES REVIEW

By Ralph Beauchamp

Nashville has recently produced a slew of amazing rock bands. Just read AMP’s features on The Other LA, The Great Affairs and Naked Gypsy Queens. Now you can add a young talented quartet named Bluphoria to the mix. The band cranks out a high energy potion of psychedelic blues and indie that utterly inflicts a galvanic punch. For a fledging group, Bluphoria demonstrates a maturity well beyond their years. The band has released a new single entitled “Columbia” via EDGEOUT Records. This is on the heals of their previous track, “Ain’t Got Me”. Both songs are off their upcoming self-titled album due out on May 5th. In addition, each tune showcases powerful songwriting and adventurous vibes.

Bluphoria is comprised of four accomplished musicians. The band is fronted by Reign LaFreniere, 23 (Lead Vocals/Lead Guitar) along with Dakota Landrum, 20 (Rhythm Guitar/Backing Vocals) Rex Wolf, 22 (Bass/Backing Vocals) and Dani Janae, 21 (Drums/ Backing Vocals). The group formed in 2019 and was originally from Eugene, Oregon. Their inventive sound mashes together many different musical genres in order to create a modern take on their classic rock influences.

“Columbia” is an atmospheric opus that distributes menacing vocals, moody guitar licks and a powerful ambiance. LaFreniere’s vocals are full of determined angst and molten turmoil. The guitars rage with intense anxiety. Landrum’s bass is threatening while Janae’s percussions slam with sublime authority. The track reminds me of Morrison and the Doors with its brooding accents. Speaking about the song, Dakota Landrum states:

“I always wanted to write a heavier more blues-oriented song for Bluphoria and I think that I did that with this song, When I was putting the words together, I wanted it to be a honest and revealing look at desire and infatuation and needed the music to follow that. However, this song has changed a lot from its conception and many things aren’t the same as the first demo. It brings so much energy and fun to so many shows and I’m proud the whole band made it so much our own.”

Lead vocalist and guitarist Reign LaFreniere adds:

“Columbia” is told through the lens of a toxic relationship with somebody. It is one of our more ‘60s hard rock songs and a favorite of the entire band.”

“Ain’t Got Me” is another killer tune. The bluesy flow enhances the psychedelic guitar riffs and its dispirited discharge. LaFreniere’s voice cracks with textured heartbreak. Every note emits misery and sorrow. Landrum’s bass vents a painful tone and Janae’s drums bnag with a sorrowful flair.

Bluphoria‘s previous two singles are also prime examples of the band’s captivating songwriting and infectious rhythms. “Walk Through Fire” and “Set Me Up” are melodic, brazen and sonically bold. Bluphoria is a band with a very promising future. Their full length will make huge waves in today’s music forum.

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To learn more about Bluphoria, check out their Website

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Stream music: Spotify  / Apple Music

Purchase: Amazon 

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