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Action pretty much sums it up. What better way is there to title your debut album than after a word you know it can live up to? This had to cross the minds of the Philadelphia foursome when considering names for their first studio offering. For all of you who have been exposed to The Ally’s raw unique explosion, you know when they promise action, they deliver.
Action encourages and stimulates the musical mind without complexity or drawn out solos. They keep your attention throughout the entire disc, sending the listener through an evolution of soundscapes, ranging from electronic scientific energy to fresh reggae beats to soulful violin cries. Action proves The Ally is yet another solid ensemble to come out of Philly’s grassroots underground arena.
The Ally provides their own credentials through solid chemistry and controlled, but not suppressed freedom. Action’s uniqueness is its virtue. Labeled as “roots fusion,” The Ally show off their wide variety of musical influences that include reggae, jazz, funk, electric beats and a hint of hip-hop.
Opening track entitled “Wooden Boat” sets the tone for the album with violinist Kimbo and bass player Ira Wolf Tuton providing pin-point soft harmonies, mixed with intelligent guitar riffs over a melodic alto saxophone. No one is overpowering the other, creating a pure imagination of inviting pitches.
Track 2, “Church Bells,” assures listeners that they are in for a treat with drummer Mike Greenfield flexing his muscles laying down tight rhythms that supply The Ally with a loaded gun that is cocked and ready to fire at any moment. Intermingled with solid bass lines, innovative electric violin and Eric Zeiler keeping the pace with a bright and melodic guitar cadence, “Church Bells” shows The Ally’s true colors and raw talent.
The good vibes fly through “A Mop” with Kimbo’s distinctive voice and Tuton’s secure harmonies. The song defines The Ally’s ability to write strong lyrics and melodies, with the correct amount of spacing of solos.
Action’s creativity is evident especially during tracks 7(Dear Mr. Gold), 8 (Touching), and 9 (2CE) as the album takes a pleasant turn into a more electronic feel. Hot pulsating beats combusted with a mixture of effective arty sounds display a different but accomplished side to the album.
The album finishes out just as strong, with “Happy Day,” a short drum piece by Greenfield, and then directly into track 11 “The Crown (Dancing Justin).” This may be the most pleasant song on the disc. Tuton lets his vocals soar, displaying his range, with the instruments as tight as always. Action is wrapped up with a bonus track entitled “Fallen” which shows off a more acoustic side to the album, that puts a smile on the face.
Bottom line, Action indulges its listeners with fearless sounds of solace that keep your head bobbing and musical hysteria alive through its entirety. The album proves that The Ally has successfully made the leap from a solid stage act to an even more solidified studio performance.
Adam Glenn
JamBase | Go See Live Music
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