Goot – Asleep At The Wheel
Alex Goot, or simply Goot, is a one man brigade located just south of the border in Poughkeepsie, New York. Known for his frantic power-pop style, Goot has the talent to become a huge success, especially given his relative youth. Though a seemingly young artist at only 19 years of age, he has created a sound that can be compared to other power-pop sensations, such as The Rocket Summer and Jack’s Mannequin. Using his multiple musical talents, his passion, and his wits, Goot has produced a vibrant, energetic, uplifting, pop-influenced album in, Asleep At The Wheel.
Asleep At The Wheel is Goots most recent album, and although only 7 tracks long, is a great listen from start to finish, and reason enough to check it out. The first song She’s Got Dementia, is a little more aggressive, attributed to the long guitar riffs on constant overdrive, and is a relatively simple pop-punk ballad. There isn’t much to the song that stands out, except for his soft welcoming voice, which really plays a role in the upbeat nature of his music. Goot’s sound in the first few tracks can be likened to Something Corporate, in that they convey the upbeat stylings of power-pop mixed with the typical aggressive tones of pop-punk. Although very likeable songs, the first few tracks come off a little boring and lack a certain charm compared to the rest of the album.
As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, keyboards really steal the show for me, I think they are one of the most underrated instruments in all of music. We Could Love is one of the songs off the album that really throw Goot up there with other main stay artists like Andrew McMahon, of Something Corporate/Jack’s Mannequin. This song has a heavy use of keys, and combined with the simple melodies of the other instruments, creates that uplifting feel that I’m so accustomed to hearing from some of my favourite artists. The rest of the album has this more pop-influenced style, which is definitely the winning formula to Goots success. Compared to tracks one and two, that last four songs off the album have a certain passion about them, and shows that Goot puts forth a sincere effort. The emotion in Goots voice and songs, translates to that of the listeners, and makes this relatively short album, a solid one.
Asleep At The Wheel, starts off slow, but never terrible, however it really kicks in after We Could Love, and goes on to rock until the very end. This 7-track gem is a great sample of what we can expect from Goot, and there’s no doubt I’ll be waiting for a fuller more complete album in the future. If Goot can produce 10 or so solid songs, whilst retaining the originality and charisma seen in this album, Goot will be an exciting addition to a rather competitive genre.
Be sure to check out their Myspace and their online store.
The keyboard is NOT neglected. As least in indie rock it isn’t. I find the songs you like are more piano/ or keyboards that are in the forefront of the music though.