A melodic rock sound enamors on “Mind Eraser,” the new single from Ben Newgard. The Durham, NC-based artist succeeds with a structural drive that ascends from quaint guitar work and introspective vocals into a gleeful vocal vigor, finding an enjoyable middle ground between power-pop and rock. Jangly guitar flourishes, serene acoustics, and a dynamic vocal range lead a stellar production from Ben Newgard, who is joined by the lineup of David Smith on lead guitar, Anders Newgard on drums, and Johnny Valiant on bass.
The exuberant vocals and steadily unveiling guitar tones establish a compelling setting, for “where talk is cheap, and no one means what they really mean.” Twangy guitars and a “that’s a guarantee,” vocal reassurance comes thereafter, consuming in its infectious drive and “creature comforts,” dreamier twangs. A bursting guitar sequence arrives with a more distortion-friendly fervor; “Mind Eraser” moves seamlessly throughout climactic introspection and enjoyably ardent rock pursuits, making for a melodically satiating success that induces replays.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.