El West and the powerful alt-rock hammer "Heavy Hitter" from the "Illume" album

"from a dream"

Dreams can be potent things. They can shake you up or inspire you or both and, of course, they can shape your art. Lead singer and guitarist of the Phoenix based rock band El West, Bryant Powell had such a dream that ended up as the powerful alt-rock hammer Heavy Hitter from their upcoming album "Illume". 

Powell states, "The inspiration behind "Heavy Hitter" stems from a dream. The protagonist was being tortured by masked men, but was antagonizing them. The hero was egging them on and as much as he was enduring pain and suffering, he would still laugh as though the pain was inconsequential."

The dream certainly sounds intense and cinematic as is the song. It starts with a divergent drum beat and rad but dream like guitar lines but as Powell's vox eases in first, like a slow burn, the drum fills are furious. The drama is ramping up, double time bass, more guitars, more drums and Powell's back of the throat vocal attack is in full wail. Love the breaks. While the song does feel cinematic and is full of action it is full of romance too. Like a dark alternative rock noir and I like that.

-Robb Donker Curtius






THE FACTS AS WE KNOW THEM - PRESS NOTES:

Los Angeles, CA. – Hailing from the desert of Phoenix AZ., El West is known for creating music that is ambient, has driving instrumentals and powerful vocals. This is no exception with their new track “Heavy Hitter” from their forthcoming album Illume.

This beautiful, yet powerfully composed song, was arranged by El West’s members Bryant Powell (Vocals/Guitar), Thomas Brenneman (Guitar), Ricky Powell (Bass), and Marty Welker (Drums). It was also produced by engineer/producer Beau Burchell (Saosin, Underoath, Senses Fail).

Powell states, "The inspiration behind "Heavy Hitter" stems from a dream. The protagonist was being tortured by masked men, but was antagonizing them. The hero was egging them on and as much as he was enduring pain and suffering, he would still laugh as though the pain was inconsequential."

El West is also no stranger to playing in front of huge crowds as they have opened up for Capital Cites, GROUPLOVE and The Chainsmokers among others.