Seeds is Brother Cane's sophomore album on Virgin. This hard rock album is a bright spot in the current deluge of alternative and post-punk music. It was recorded in Atlanta for a little Southern rock flavor, produced by Brother Cane and Marti Frederiksen, and mixed by Tim Palmer, who has also worked with Pearl Jam and Sponge). The album has that wonderful hard rock, driving beat, but some tracks evidence a medium tempo showing range and keeping things interesting. The first single off Seeds is "And Fools Shine On", a good example of a midtempo song with lovely, soaring lyrics and an underlying insistent beat. "Hung On A Rope" is a favorite with its in-your-face guitar onslaught. Similarly, "Kerosene" grabs the first note and runs full speed to the end with an ear shattering barrage. The tempo might vary, but the lyrical inspiration does not. The lyrics were written about family and friends making for a more personal album and cohesion across the tracks.
Brother Cane is most proud of the the lyrics in Seeds because of the feelings expressed. The band member penning most of the lyrics is lead vocalist and guitarist Damon Johnson. Others in the band work on lyrics as well but are primarily involved with making the music. Those familiar with Brother Cane's debut album will find a slightly different lineup this go-round. Scott Collier is still on drums, but Roman Glick has moved to bass making room for new guitarist, David Anderson. Like the rest of the quartet, Anderson hails from Alabama. While Collier still pounds out that distinctive sound which comes from his study of Latin and African drumming, Glick gives the bass a less predictable feel.
Who will like Seeds? Every hard rock fan - because it's truly a great album. Pick it up and you'll hear some influences of established rock bands, but you'll also hear lyrics that are very personal as sung and played by an extremely talented new band. Keep an eye on Brother Cane. These Seeds should be sown for a while to come.
