Joey Barnes – Three EPs

Style: Acoustic, Alt Rock, Pop

For fans of: The Beatles, Matt Nathanson, Tears For Fears

The former Daughtry drummer catapults to his own fame with standout cuts such as “Always” and “It’s Not Me” from one of three EPs released over the past few years. Rich, well-produced tracks work both as instrumentals and with full vocal cuts. Part big romantic and part storyteller, Joey Barnes brings his considerable multi-instrumental talents to the work. “The Wire (Act I)” turns up the volume with a searing electric guitar riff and an incessant stadium-ready percussion.

The EP Change brings out a more explosive alternative rock influence in an a-ha and Tears for Fears vein. Speedy guitars and rolling bass lines serve the dramatic vocals and heighten the intensity and emotional impact. “Down” returns to Barnes’ more intimate take on love and introspection. There is a longing and inherent visual aspect to these works making them a perfect fit for the wide screen. “1961 Diamond” and “Mercy” work particularly well as instrumentals with strong piano tracks and pulsating rhythms.

A third set from the EP Last Request offers the melancholy title ballad that’s closer to a John Legend or Alan Parsons Project cut. “Think About It” is a soul-tinged love song while “Rewind” might work as a tongue-in-cheek cut for children’s programming.

There’s plenty of excellent vocal material here well suited for independent film, romantic comedy/dramas and instrumental versions for advertising campaigns.