Revamped Shams plow on, with great result
Paul Allaer | Cincinnati | 12/17/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"It was with surprise and disappointment when I heard the news in early 2006 that Thee Shams (pronounced "The" Shams) decided to call it a day, in particular since their 2005 album "Sign the Line" was such a fine album. But the disappointment didn't last long as 3 of the band's key members decided to go on under the name "Buffalo Killers". The Gabbard bothers write all of the material. This album is the revamped band's first.
"Buffalo Killers" (10 tracks; 47 min.) is a new musical direction for the band, with less the garage band sound of Thee Shams, and a more 60s-type classical rock sound, as found on the opening track "San Martine Des Morelle". At the opening sounds of the next track "SS NOwhere", I was immediately reminded of the Beatles-era "Rubber Soul", but heavier. "The Path Before Me" screams out Jimi Hendrix, while "River Water" can immediately be traced back to the Allman Brothers sound. And on it goes. The closing track "Something Real" is somewhat of a departure from the overall heavy sound, with piano and harpsichord. Overall, this is a great album that, despite gathering critical successes, is struggling to find the wider recognition it deserves.
I'm happy to say that the Buffalo Killers are another great band coming out of Cincinnati. I've had the chance to see them perform locally, and live, these guys are incredible. The songs from the album gain a dimension in concert that is not found on the album. The album is highly recommended, and when the Buffalo Killers come to your town, don't miss them!"
Psychedelic
The Dude | EH CT | 05/19/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Buffalo Killers Debut album does many things and can be compared somewhat to A Zeppelin esc. style. You def. get the essence of a psychedelic style to their music. I would consider this cd to be a very easy listen through. Iam normally not one to be able to listen to a cd the whole way through the first time, or I get bored with it after the first half of a cd. This cd however the first time I popped it on my Itunes I listened to it the whole way through and went straight onto the Ipod.
If you are a fan of THE GREAT AND MIGHTY WOLFMOTHER I would highly recommend this cd. They have similar styles and in this day in age it is great to hear some of that old fashion good rock. While not totally alike Buffalo Killers seem to be the American version of Wolfmother, maybe not making as catchy tunes as Wolfmother but certainly up to par with them.
If your sick of hearing the same old garbage (Nickle Crap, Puddle of Crap, Fall out Toy, or any other of these sham of a bands give this a listen !!!!!"