FRANK VIELE – TIME IS A THIEF – EP REVIEW
AMP’s dear friend, Frank Viele is set to release an impressive new four song EP. The tracks were recorded and mixed in various studios including those in Stamford and West Haven, Ct. as well as Muscle Shoals, Al. Viele also collaborated with several high end songwriters such as Jimmy Nutt (Jason Isbell/The Dead South) and James Leblanc (Travis Tritt/Tim Mcgraw) of Muscle Shoals These collaborations and his ardent songwriting have taken Frank to a new crossroad. He feels that these slow cooked tunes are some of his finest to date, Frank is a passionate songwriter full of flair and intensity. In addition, the EP is a precursor to an upcoming full length Frank will be delivering in the near future.
Frank assembled an extraordinary group of musicians to accompany him in the studio. Several of the collaborators are legendary. Liberty Devitto (Billy Joel) on drums, Scott Spray (Johnny Winter) on bass and cellist Dave Eggar (Coldplay) all assisted Frank in the recording process.
Despite still being in a pandemic world, the last half of 2021 has been absolutely fantastic for Frank. Not only has he recorded his new album, he also embarked on several local and national tours. Most recently he was support for the the imposing John Waite. Practically all the shows were sell-outs and exposed Frank to a new virgin fanbase. He continues his monthly residencies at No Worries Brewery and Los Charros/Essex Public Market where he’s able to keep his “rock n’ roll chops” up and he can continue to test new tunes.
Viele‘s new EP is entitled Time Is A Thief. The four songs all have vibrant melodies and textured tones. Throughout the EP, Frank‘s bold songwriting is lush embedded with brazen vocals and dynamic harmonies. The first song is “Time Is A Thief”. The tune has a rapturous flow showcasing Frank‘s stirring vocals. He effortlessly is able to convey an impassioned fervor with his cinematic voice. The sublime arrangements are superb. The emotive guitar is introspective and tasteful. Viele’s lyrics are always heartfelt and carry a barrage of captivating depth.
Next up is “The River”. This beautiful ballad has a strong folk flavor alongside impressive gospel infused accents. Frank‘s voice is mesmerizing as well as bearing an exquisitely delicate lilt. The silky strumming guitar envelopes the listener with a wistful warmth that is utterly divine. “The River” empowers the soul forwarding a sense of peace and contentment.
The next two songs are just as potent. “Tears Drag You Down” is another ballad that emits a palette full of pensive spirit. Frank‘s plaintive voice ferries legions of melancholy and romantic despair. You can absolutely feel his yearning and angst in every note. His inflections are impeccable and the music is captivating. “Tears Drag You Down” is a tender mammoth of a song.. Frank leaves the best for last. “Love You Enough (The Vultures)” is a hard hitting banger that drops a voracious funk beat with bluesy overtones. Viele‘s raspy voice is an ideal match for the gnarly beat. The guitar pummels a decisive solo and the backbeat is relentless. A splendid finish to an audacious release. Time Is A Thief is definitely a forceful preview for Frank‘s upcoming album.
Frank Viele will holding a formal EP release show this Saturday (Dec. 4th) at 10Selden in Woodbridge. Also performing is the talented Ella Sera and Hatfield. Don’t miss it.
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To learn more about Frank Viele, check out his Website
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