Lindsey Buckingham Palace has been rocking the Washington, D.C. scene on and off since
2011. Originally formulated as a power trio, Lindsey Buckingham Palace consisted of Names
Thompson, Marc Rothschild and Mark Giaimo. After a year of dynamic, high-powered live
performances, Lindsey Buckingham Palace succumbed to the stress of life on the road and
personal issues. Realigning later in 2012, remaining members Thompson and Rothschild
welcomed Mike Hill (vocals) and Mark Minicucci (guitar) into the fold. Names Thompson
moved on during 2013 and new drummer Made Ployamornrat joined in early 2014, just in time
for the release of the band’s debut EP Rock Star Parking. What started out as a power trio has
become a balanced blend of hard rock, country, and blues.
Rock Star Parking begins with "She Don't Like", a wide open rocker with funky guitar work and
a catchy chorus. This is a song about front row vixens and the temptations of rock and roll, and
the price one might pay for partaking of those temptations. The simple but grand arrangement is
an ode to 80's hair band excess, tied together with serious showmanship and a vibrant
melodicism you simply can't ignore. "Drowning" is a song of mourning, a sorrowful ode to what
was and what might one day be, but is mostly focused on the empty space between. This takes
on something of a droning quality at times, but has real heart behind it. "20 Years" is a tribute to
youth and to the music that propelled youth into a career in music. This is very catchy; a fun
listen. The EP closes out with "Gringo", an entertaining rocker that's low on substance but high
on grit and melody.
Lindsey Buckingham Palace brings a certain swagger to Rock Star Parking. It’s the sort of bigtime confidence that comes from chutzpah, talent and an absolute love for performing. The
slower material doesn’t work quite as well, but the band pulls it off almost in spite of itself.
Lindsey Buckingham Palace shows the talent and sound to do big things in the future, and Rock
Star Parking is a great start.
Artist: Lindsey Buckingham Palace
Title:
Rock Star Parking
Rating:
3.5 Stars (Out of 5)
Review by: Wildy Haskell