Healing is painful but necessary.” -Sean Makra
Texas based neo blues/rock/punkabilly outfit Drive On Mak deliver a distinctive, genuine and quite refreshing blend of sounds, symbols and therapeutic, socially commentative lyrics on their latest EP, Babylon.
Babylon, inspired by equal parts ancient kingdom and A Knight’s Tale (the film), kicks off the album with a smooth electric guitar progression, bass locked in groove with tasty drums, and a story of pride preceding the epic fall. Sean’s vocal delivery immediately grabs you and locks you into the album’s building depth.
Comin’ For You kicks off with a thick kick, soaring harmonica and pulsating bass before moving into a gritty, blues infused tale about a woman who preys on younger men before eating them alive. Much like the female praying mantis devours the male after mating, Drive On Mak consume our attention with engaging storytelling backed by a well crafted, desert-esque soundscape which sets the mood for eerie lyrics and infectious frequencies.
Mixing ancient stories with contemporary sounds, the smooth-flowing slightly-distorted guitar-melody-driven Kiss Thy Hand delves into the complexities of the King David story and the act of sacrificing self for the greater good. The hook on this one is catchy and memorable.
Outlaw slaps us in the face with an aggressive, fast paced, foot stompin’ aural assault that is guaranteed to boost your energy like a shot of adrenaline to the jugular. This one has a hook that would have rooms full of attentive listeners raising their fists and screaming Outlaw in unison during the chorus.
Player slows it down for a rockabilly blues groove backing a charming but gritty vocal delivery and some really awesome and gut wrenching guitar tones that will have you rewinding this track for a repeat listen.
When I’m Gone kicks off with fast paced rhythms and sweet sounding harmonica before jumping into an energetic, warm sounding progression that lays the foundation for a story about a friend’s marriage. In the words of Sean,
…{When I’m Gone is} a harsh breakup song written about an army friend’s marriage, something I would then experience myself.”
There’s also a Bonus Track but you will have to listen to the album for that one.
Babylon can be jammed below or on Soundcloud.
The album is available on CD Baby.
Connect with Drive On Mak on FB.
