Best known for their anthemic 2012 hit single “Soldiers,” the Las Vegas rockers Otherwise seem to always be on the verge of breaking out into something huge. Their third full length album “Sleeping Lions” may be just the thing that takes things to the next level for this talented young band. The album title seems a fitting one as band members have stated that they “have been hibernating, licking their wounds, and regaining their strength for the hunt.” If this new record is any indication, the band has indeed awoken the sleeping lion within them putting out their strongest material to date.
“Sleeping Lions” has twelve outstanding tracks from full out rockers to emotionally charged ballads. They wrote about about genuine themes that we can all relate to tackling topics like anger, regret, and of course, love. Brothers, lead vocalist Adrian Patrick and lead guitarist Ryan Patrick, are full of passion and fire while bassist Tony Carboney and drummer Brian Medeiros provide the backbone for their sound. The lead track “Angry Heart’ is a heavy rocker while “Weapons” begins with soft keyboards building to an all out rock tune with a huge chorus. The band also takes some risks this time out with the programming and embellishments on “Beautiful Monster” and the killer bass line and tempo changes of “Dead In The Air.” The muted tones of “Blame” add an interesting element before soaring to a full chorus and intense guitar solo. “Suffer” is a great mid-tempo radio friendly tune with a soft piano lead in and a full, lush sound. The beautiful ballad “Bloodline Lullaby” is heartfelt and moving, showcasing the depth of Adrian’s vocals. Closing out the album is perhaps the strongest tune on the record in “Won’t Stop.” The tune is a strong melodic rocker with a sing along chorus that will be a sure hit especially in a live setting.
The emotionally charged “Sleeping Lions” is full of a ferocity and intensity that resonates deep into your soul. Make some room on your shelf for this one today.
