Three outstanding “classic” style rock tracks that will remind you the past isn’t even past

The Slow Glow – “Take It Easy, Charlie”
-The guitar work on this track puts a massive smile on my face. At first blush, you might think the lyrics here are overly simple. But at about the 10th repetition of the line, you start to understand. “Oh, the point of this song is to rest, to let go.” Once you do that… wow, it’s even better. This is a track that feels psychedelic-informed, if not outright influenced, and that vibe is one that encourage relaxed self reflection. The easy comps might be bands like mid-career Beatles or even Herman’s Hermits, but really The Slow Glow deserve to stand on their own right here in the 21st century.

The Takeoff – “Timber”
-If you’re a fan of 60s style rock n’ roll that brings together elements of blues and rock for a moving energy, this track is sure to connect. Honestly, I think you could put this song on an oldies station and people would think it’s a Zeppelin deep cut. I mean that. It’s got a really fascinating, visceral guitar quality to it that feels like it captures just the right amount of fuzziness and raw energy. I wonder if the folks who produced this actually used vintage equipment; it’s that convincing. I would say this is a must listen for diehard fans of Zeppelin or even the Rolling Stones. It’s an incredible sound that will make you second guess when it was recorded (in a good way).

The Modbeats – “Hold Me, Roll Me”
-The upbeat guitar and percussion on this track captures the ear right away. Once you lean in and feel this one, there’s a sort of John Mellencamp (or even Bruce Springsteen) energy to this one. I appreciate the way the vocal soars over the instrumentation, but the whole thing feels like a late 60s or early 70s vintage rock energy. If I had magical connections, I’d love to be able to play music like this for Rick Beato. I don’t understand why there’s not room for music like this on the charts today. It captures the best of what used to be, yet has this modern production polish that makes it sound even better. As a guy that grew up listening to “oldies” from the 60s and 70s, this track fits right in with that sort of rotation. I’m happy to tap my toes along with a jam like this, for sure.

Image courtesy: The Takeoff IG