Music Review: Number One Gun - To The Secrets and Knowledge

Genre: Rock
Label: Tooth & Nail
Release Date: January 26, 2010

Rating: 4/5

So hang with me here...

In 2006, the members of Number One Gun decided to part ways. Singer Jeff Schneeweis started The North Pole Project while members Christopher Keene and Jeff Malory started Surrogate and Trevor Sellers joined Armed for Apocalypse. Schneeweis then later changed The North Pole Project’s name back to Number One Gun. Same band name; same singer; only 25% of the original members.

Schneeweis’ latest project with the band is To The Secrets and Knowledge, a pleasantly surprising alternative rock effort big on soaring melodies and just well-crafted tunes. Many different types of sounds are utilized through the record, from synthesized 80’s-ish keyboards of the opener “The Victory” to the a-cappella-like vocalizations on “Noises” and the trippy-percussion of “White Lies.” For the most part, it works, with just enough “experimentation” mixed in with the straight rock guitar riffs and driving baselines to keep things interesting while not going over the top.

“Look To Pass” is a 3:20 instrumental rock jaunt that would have served as an amazing intro for an epic rock song, but never really goes where I was hoping (I still enjoyed the song - just would have liked more based on where it was going). Finally, the album is topped off by a cover of what’s becoming the anthem for a younger generation, Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing.” And pulled off pretty well, I might add. It’ll probably leave you wanting more, though, as the album clocks in at just under 33 minutes.

The songs here are fantastic melodically, with many refusing to leave your mind for a while after listening. I really enjoy Schneeweis' voice as well. The album has grown on me with each listen as well. I’m not completely sure about the staying power since there’s nothing really new here, but the songs are just so consistently solid throughout that I can see myself still listening to this a few months from now. There aren’t any throwaway songs here, and there’s enough diversity of style to keep your interest.



*This album was provided for review by Tooth & Nail Records.