REVIEW: Cravin' Melon, Where I Wanna Be (Seedless)

- Bob Gajarsky

South Carolina's Cravin' Melon is currently an unknown band striking to make it big in the national arena, but their first full length release, Where I Wanna Be, aims to target the four piece electrified-acoustic band for a national spotlight.

An initial listen to the disc prompts immediate comparisons to harmonizers Toad the Wet Sprocket and Hootie and the Blowfish; the latter comparison is particularly apt, as producer Dick Hodgin worked with Hootie's band before the Blowfish exploded on the national scene. Further listens reveal similarities to bands such as From Good Homes, 38 Special and Gin Blossoms. The feel-good sound is what links all these groups and Cravin' Melon deliver this in spades.

Particular standouts include the pseudo-title track, "Sweet Tea", which sings the praises of the drink only truly available in the South and "Running", which is the kind of song that can be stretched out at concerts with an entire audience singing and clapping along.

Hodgin's golden ear has picked up another powerful southern band which is on the road to national success. Check out why on Where I Wanna Be.

Interested fans can purchase the CD for $14 ppd. from Cravin' Melon at 101 North St., Taylors SC 29687. The band can be contacted directly via e-mail at melonheads@aol.com