A Rock album masterpiece by Ben Richman
Indie-rock artist Ben Richman is indeed proving to be ‘rich man’ with hazy like, fuzzed out of the blue new album tagged Journey to a Dead End. It isn’t just the charm the singer brings to bear on his songs, it’s the fact that Ben reminds you of how the good, ole’ 90s were. I was thrilled by the lovely and enchanting balance in the entire album; from the discipline and value imputed into the production, giving you the whole essence in a moment, to the mesmerizing lyrics, which tell poignant shaggy dog stories. The guitar riffs were picked with professional care, as the grandson of Virginia sculpts catchy hooks to the performance precisely and successfully. Every tune builds on the last, creating a chilled-out, relaxing vibe. Aspects of the composition make reference to Pavement’s finest disoriented tracks, as there is a warmth and compassion that is fully explored like the Biblical ‘Sweet hour of prayers.’ Below is the 10-song album reviewed in snappy perspectives.
Key songs of the Journey to a Dead End Album
“Oh No” let’s fly with huge excitement that resonate with compelling themes, with a propelling rhythm and goofy grin-inducing poetry that hits like a well-placed snapshot. If you were expecting something less, you’d be glad you’re disappointed.
“Expectations” delivers a tingy, soul reviving atmospheric melody that reminds me of how we used to dance to rockie rhythms way back in the 90s. I was really impressed by the psychedelic feel as well.
Then came “Dumb,” the track of the drums, by the drums, and for the drums. The speed by which they pick up from the opening song can best be described as excitedly reckless lyricism hits just right. Once more, the excitement reaches a feverish peak, and the vocals are incredibly passionate, piercing body, soul and spirit. It has a magnanimity and relatable feel to it, rich with a prophetic spirit.
The incredible outpouring of passion that is “The Shadows of What You Said” is undoubtedly the album’s centerpiece. It is exceptionally well-made, with meticulous attention to detail and excellent synchronicity. You can feel the passion all through the song as it relates to things truly relatable to everyone. Ten stars for this job, Ben.
“Snake Oil Shows” is a contemplative continuance of the introspective vibe, and what a great vibe it is. “32” is a fast pace beat song with hard pressed guitar riffs and driving drums that renders a dance-along melodious vibe. “Half in the Grave” is another laid-back song that carries an air of resignation to whatever fate brings. Have you ever felt that way?
“Monster” brings more of the introspective vibe present from the previous songs. A uniquely named track that has a soft rock style to it. The introspection on this one alone is enough to keep a listener’s ears open and receptive to the subject matter.
On the reflective “Broken Hearts Club,” melodies cut all through the din, taking you on a ride with dreams depressed from crude life experiences, but with typical funky style drive on the beat.
“Kingdom Come” delivers a pleasant surprise—one that emerges from the soul and raw grit of the unplugged passion that drives home a notable point of synchronistic difference. “It’s not all right, But It’s Okay” takes a more laid-back vibe, a song that discusses the reality of what you don’t want but is what is at hand. It is a song that reminds us of those moments we don’t want but just can’t do away with. Realistically sad?
“Journey to a Dead End” is the last track that ended the album’s journey, but not on a dead end…rather, the beginning of the artist’s incredulous recording masterpiece.
The rock and funky beat, with a mix of alternative rock, set this album aside for greatness.
Ben used “Journey to a Dead End” to demonstrate remarkable expertise in creating a concept that is impossible to dismiss. After this, we can indeed expect this gifted artist to rise.