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Talas: The Early Years

12/25/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Talas was and still is the world's most underrated rock 'n roll band. Their live shows and state of the art lighting, in the late 70's and 80's, catapulted them into the local limelight creating a cult of die-hard Talas followers. The power-trio consisted of Billy Sheehan (bass, vocals), Paul Varga (drums, vocals) and Dave Constantino (guitar, vocals). Each member had conquered his instrument with expertise and soon became "gods" in the eyes of all local musicians. Talas had the abililty to take any cover song and make it their own. Their stage show was mesmerizing, their energy seemed limitless and when they played, they played loud. The louder, the better. Talas was a force to be reckoned with. They were unstoppable and untouchable. They left audiences stunned and amazed. Talas gradually introduced their own songs into the set list and before long they were recording what would be the first Talas album. It was to be the most eagerly awaited album of the year. Fans waited patiently for the release of the album (which has been conveniently remastered to CD) and the wait was well worth it. The album features songs written by every band member. Each member of Talas has the knack of focusing in on the melody, an art which some bands choose to ignore. The words and music prepare the listener for the ultimate hooks. Talas created their own style and sound. Dave Constantino's proficient guitar work let's him roll off riffs and leads that are reminiscent to the great guitar heroes. Paul Varga is an accomplished drummer who confronts his craft head on and whose sound is the blueprint for Talas. Billy Sheehan, the bass virtuoso, has gone on to become one of the world's most recognized players. Listeners overwhelmed local radio stations with calls requesting songs from the new album. "See Saw" was added to the station's play list and soon became an anthem for the band. Talas' popularity grew and local appearances resulted in long lines of fans each trying to experience the Talas phenomenon. Other songs like "Thick Head" and "My Little Girl" were requested nightly. "Stop! In the Name of Love" proved that the boys could even cover a Motown song with class. Their three part harmonies seem smooth and effortless. "Most People" and "Expert on Me" explore the aspects of a misunderstood rocker. "You" and "Baby It Sure Looks Great" focus more on the perks of being in the public eye. "She Don't Know" is a no-frills driving rock song which sets you up for "Any Other Day", a song which proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that Paul Varga is one of the best singers in rock 'n roll. The impressive mixture of songs from this talented trio will not leave any listener disappointed."

Who was Talas?

madadodad | Dallas, TX | 12/01/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Friend of mine called me on the horn and was all excited: he'd found "Talas" at a half price book store in the used CD rack. I never heard of a Talas. He told me, 'you think Mel Schacher (of Grand Funk Railroad) played a mean bass? You NEED to hear THIS!!'Now I've held Mel and his buffalo f@rt bass as an idol for 25 years. He was an ex-banjo player of all things. Grand Funk was a power 3 piece band and two of them played lead, one of them on bass: Mel.Finally I got "Talas". This album grows on you. First time I heard it reminded me of a second rate Night Ranger or something. The lyrics aren't that great, but that bass! I'll have to admit it, Mel could NEVER sustain the effort like Billy does! Now I'm on the hunt for more of Talas.If you are into bass guitar, you ought to give this a listen. The sound clips on amazon don't give you any real idea of the bass riffs Billy pulls off (except the very last of 'She Don't Know' which fades out in the last seconds)."