- Bryon Harris
Rick Drevet - "Don't Look There"
Reviewed by Aaron Cloutier
"Rick And Friends," a collaboration between guitarist/songwriter Rick Drevert and drummer Mark Pappalardo serve up a heaping slab of rock on "Don't Look There." A chest-pounding anthem infused with a southern swagger mixed with the hi-energy style of 80's arena rock the likes of Bon Jovi or even Def Leppard. The production style especially brings to mind the aforementioned bands as the mix is very sleek and doesn't skimp on those time-based effects that gave those classic records of the era their signature sound. It's even got that Mutt Lang cannon shot snare drum sound. 80's baby!
The music itself is ambitious and commanding but remains very accessible throughout. Amidst the driving rhythms, soaring vocals, and guitar pyrotechnics, there are some lean songwriting chops on display. Drevet cuts to the chase and gets to the carefully crafted hooks without beating around the bush. From a songwriting standpoint, there is zero fat on this track. Drevet plays with a tremendous amount of feeling as he weaves through crunchy, chorus-soaked rhythms and epic soaring leads. Pappalardo's drum work keeps things intricate and exciting without ever overpowering things. He plays with mindfulness of serving the song at all times while taking opportunities here and there for a tasty fill or intricate ride cymbal work.
Outside the core collaboration of Drevet and Pappalardo, "Rick and Friends" features a host of musicians, including singer Rusty Wright whose warm, rich tone and soulful vibrato is a stark contrast to the sandpaper rasp of a Def Leppard or a Bon Jovi influence. A refreshing twist. The song features his full-throated delivery to significant effect and packs on some tasty harmonies to boot.
In all of his songs, Drevet takes inspiration from real-life experience, and "Don't Look There" is no exception. It draws from the pain of the loss of his friend to suicide at the hands of addiction, and the message is clear in lyrics such as.
"Life comes at you. Ready or not. All you can do is give it, give it, give it all that you've got."
Meaning that no matter how tough today is, tomorrow is on its way. So just hold on.
For those of you who dig on a fist-pumping anthem-style rock with poignant lyrics played with feeling, Rick and Friends might just be what you're looking for.
Links to streaming sites: https://rickandfriends.hearnow.com/dont-look-there
About Rick & Friends
Seasoned professionals, Rick Drevet and Mark Pappalardo collaborate on a new musical venture. Their vast musical and life experiences, energizes them to create classics that will stand the test of time. They share a life, and values philosophy of pulling from actual experiences. Reaching deep into their hearts and souls, to find creative and poetic ways to convey these true stories to you, their fans. We sincerely hope you find their journey moving, entertaining and enjoyable.
The Music
Hook filled, catchy tunes based in a Rock-Southern Rock-Blues blended style all their own. Soaring vocal harmonies, soul-stirring lyrics that draw you into the story, flanked by dual guitars and a beat that will have your head rocking and foot tapping! Career Highlights Rick Drevet: has played in multiple cover and original bands spanning the country. Having shared the stage with EZO, Enuff Z Nuff, Badlands, Jake E Lee, Dokken, Cinderella and Sebastian Bach, Rick has gained a great appreciation for putting feeling into notes. His songs have been nominated for several awards. Having built and operated a profitable recording studio, Rick learned first hand how to get the best from artists including himself. A self described “Tone Junkie” Rick strives to make each song speak to you on a personal basis. Mark “Boomer” Pappalardo: having started at a very young age, has come up through the L.A. music scene, a graduate of the Musicians Institute in Hollywood where he was privileged to have studied with the likes of Buddy Rich, Joe Porcarro, Steve Smith and Todd Sucherman, has appeared on multiple recordings from 4 major labels, and has performed with and for many top industry acts including but not limited to, Tim Bogart, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Flee, Stevie Wonder, Mickey Thomas, James “Jimmy” Cleaver, Kevin DeBrow, and many others, as well as having shared the stage with the likes of Van Halen, Stryper, Poison, Motley Crue, The Pretenders, Y&T, and a host of others. He also received the “Who’s Who in Music” award.
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