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Artist: Dante
Album: “Starbelly”
CD Review: This is a 6-song demo but it is a fair representation of the group’s sound. Dante is the band name and the name of the songwriter and lead vocalist of the group. Dante’s smoky vocals remind me of Martha Davis of the Motels. I also agree with other reviewers’ comparisons to Steely Dan because of the jazz touches here and there. You will also hear blues and funk touches and an overall rock feel throughout.

The songs also have a ‘drama’ about them, an art rock feel but not over the top. There is passion in the performances of each of the musicians in the ensemble. The band is very tight and energetic and all the musicianship is top rate. The same goes for the arrangement and melodic approach. Together the band infuses each of the songs with an energy that genuinely rocks.

If you like Genesis’ sophisticated musicianship and songwriting and Concrete Blonde’s strong female up front rock “Starbelly” will be very welcome in your collection.

http://www.hyype.com/dante/index.shtml