"The Beatles comparison is inescapable. These songs are close enough that one can't use the word 'original' without blinking. The Redwalls' De Nova is De rivative. But that's ok. Because, like the Monkeys (America's answer to the Moptops), this is still good music and really fun. What it lacks in originality, it makes up for in exuberance. Lots of melody, harmony, and rhythm crammed onto one disc. The Beatles were the seminal moment- the spark that lit countless fires. The Redwalls are one of those fires (a big blazing bonfire) that heats things up and, with no irony, salutes the Fab Four proudly."
Almost a pop/rock masterpiece
Bennet J | Tucson, AZ | 06/23/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The time has come for people to know about the Redwalls. This is a Chicago band that is so talented for their age (no-one over 22), it makes you wonder what superstars they could be a few years from now. De Nova is a solid mix of songs, comparable to The Black Crowes, Stones, mid-era Beatles, or Dylan, depending on what song you are on. The great thing about the Redwalls is their ability to perform classic sounding songs that seem like they actually could have been written in the 60's. Give this album a try now, and also check out their debut, Universal Blues, which is just as good."
The Redwalls will be your new favorite band!
Stephanie Altoro | Prairie Village, KS USA | 06/22/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If you've never heard music by The Redwalls, De Nova is a great place to start. This follow-up to their first album Universal Blues has something for everyone on it. If you're a romantic you'll love "Love her." If you hate the FCC as much as the The Redwalls do you'll definitely love the protest song "Falling down." And if you just like Rock 'n' Roll and having a good time, the song "It's alright" will be your new anthem. Each track on this album has it's own unique twist whether it's a catchy chorus, guitar solo, or Logan Baren's(lead singer)unique and very entertaining voice. This album is sure to be your feel-good album for the summer, so go out and buy it! You should also buy Universal Blues,their first album, which is just as great."
Real Rock and Roll
Record Geek | Boston, MA | 06/30/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the best new rock and roll album I've heard in a long, long, long time!!
There isn't much music like this coming out these days and its really refreshing that The Redwalls are doing it so well.
You don't have to be a genius to hear Bowie, Stones, Beatles, Dylan, Kinks influences in this but certainly it's clearly got their signature. It sounds like...well...The Redwalls.
It's great to know that someone is carrying the torch of some of the best rock and roll bands ever...and without putting some trendy, ironic twist on it. The Redwalls are honest and owning up to what inspires them.
Great CD! Hard to imagine a fan of rock music not liking this."
Retro-rockin' Fun
B. Niedt | Cherry Hill, NJ United States | 03/02/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The "album cover" art should be your first clue of what to expect from the Redwalls: a "shelf-worn" effect and a cover photo of them in rather Beatle-esque poses. (Apparently they passed on an opportunity to label their CD tracks as "Side 1" and "Side 2".) But these guys are not "poseurs" - they have an honest passion and commitment to the "British Invasion" sound of the 1960's. Throughout this energetic and musically authentic effort, you'll hear echoes of the Who, early Elton John, and especially the John Lennon side of the Beatles. (Listen to the closing track, "Rock and Roll", and then try telling me I'm wrong.) These young lads from Chicago have nailed down the sound better than any of their contemporaries, better than even Canada's Sam Roberts. This is a fun and energetic CD with a number of standout tracks, including "Build a Bridge", "Robinson Crusoe", and "Thank You". (And for you "sensitive" listeners, don't let the "explicit" tag scare you off - it's only for one song, "Falling Down", which uses profanity to make a point about radio censorship.) This album doesn't pretend to be avant garde, nor does it want to be. Just put in on, shake your mop-top, jump around, play air guitar, and enjoy it."