Austin Sound

A band with a history of getting pigeonholed by names, Amplified Heat began its days under a very different moniker: the Blues Connection. After seeing that many showgoers expected a more traditional blues act, and predicting the rock and roll direction of the band, the three brothers agreed a name change was in order. With How Do You Like the Sound of That?, the third release by Austin’s booze-n’-blues powerhouse, the band once again changes up the mix. One can’t help but expect more of the fast, hard energy envisioned by the Brothers Ortiz those many years ago, but instead the 11 track album ambles along to a more traditional - and more personal - blues sound.

The group experiments with lighthearted boogie, as in the aptly named “Amplified Boogie,” and with fast-paced and punk-laced rock n’ roll in “What Went Wrong,” but generally Heat’s newest release seems more deliberate and introspective than the band’s previous efforts. Opener “Tough Guy,” which tells of a testosterone-laden brawl, sets a slow pace for the album. Vocalist Jim Ortiz’ gruff voice proclaims, “Look in my eyes, do I look scared? You’re twice my size, but I don’t care,” evoking the 2005 street altercation that left drummer Chris and bassist Gian hospitalized with several stab wounds. Never ones to back down, the group revs their engines in the energetic “Rambler”; cymbals crash and feet tap under the tutelage of Chris’ able hands, and Jim continues to bring the same sharp licks that fans have grown to love.

Despite these perks, a few dubious production decisions leave the song crippled. Jim here adopts a more melodic voice, and while it certainly grows on the listener, it is so high in the mix that it sounds piercing upon first hearing it. Likewise, both “Rambler” and “How Do you Like That” feature solos that pan sickeningly from right to left speakers. Rather than coming off as exciting, one simply feels seasick, and the panning is so extreme that much of the solo can’t be heard clearly. One gets the impression that something impressive just happened, but feels cheated from not seeing it in its full glory.

While great musicianship keeps the album afloat, small design flaws abound. They may not single-handedly undermine the bluesy satisfaction of How Do You Like the Sound of That?, but collectively they leave a sour taste in one’s mouth. Amplified Heat remains one of Austin’s most impressive acts, but in its latest full-length release, the trio seems satisfied with letting the flames flicker rather than foment.

Mp3 from How Do You Like the Sound of That?:
How Do You Like the Sound of That?

Websites:
www.amplifiedheat.com
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