Archer Stevens - Pretty Ugly
Rock, Pop Rock
Arizona, U.S.
Overall Impression: "Pretty Ugly" is the debut release from Arizona-based indie rock outfit, Archer Stevens. Taking its cues and inspiration from 1970s classic rock, this mid-tempo track features a vibrant sound and a massive arrangement centered around a soulful and compelling piano riff that's complemented by blazing guitar leads and brilliant Hammond organ, along with a lively rhythm section highlighted by heavy Latin percussion. Passionate male vocals explore introspective themes of self-esteem and rejection, and are bolstered by creative production techniques and soaring backing vocals that really bring this song to life. Alternative and indie rock enthusiasts, particularly those with vintage tastes, can find Archer Stevens' "Pretty Ugly" now available for streaming on all major music platforms.
Strongest Point(s): Outstanding production, incredible sounding mix. Excellent tonal balance and clarity, as well as use of stereo width and space. Strong "Sympathy for the Devil" vibes and song structure. Love the intro; great use of filtering there, awesome staging and build-up. Tremendous groove, fantastic piano riff. Terrific bass line, great kinetic energy and motion. The Latin percussion adds a ton of rhythmic character and color. Nice overdriven guitar tone as well. The breakdown/bridge at 2:48 works really well to create an interesting dynamic shape and provides wonderful variety. Things really ramp up following that section, great jam with a solid ending. Compelling vocal style and performance, plenty of rock swagger that fits nicely within the parameters of the song. The backing vox are well arranged and produced, and add another engaging human element. Lyrics work really well in this context, and should resonate strongly with alternative and indie audiences. Great title hook as well. All in all, this is a stellar rock track that draws heavily on retro influences and works them seamlessly into a modern form and production. Magnificent work here, by everyone involved!
Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Pop/Rock, Alternative Pop/Rock, Alternative/Indie Rock, Indie Rock
Artist target suggestions: Spoon, The Walkmen, Cold War Kids, Dr. Dog, The Hold Steady, The Strokes, Guided by Voices, The War on Drugs, Ted Leo, Pavement, My Morning Jacket, Modest Mouse, The Killers, Cage the Elephant, Kings of Leon, Ben Folds, Ben Kweller
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About the Reviewer:
Steven Azami is a multi-instrumentalist with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. Both as a touring/session player and as a producer, his career has spanned nearly every genre from bluegrass to jazz, from rock to reggae. In addition, his work as a music educator has allowed him to cultivate and foster talent among the next generation of musical explorers.