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The major label debut from Memphis-based quartet Ingram Hill, June’s Picture
Show, is somewhat of a throwback album. Either that or it’s a lesson to us all that through the trends and over hyped flavors-of-the-month, bands that make good music are always welcome to our senses. There are mostly hints of southern-fried post grunge here, ala Better Than Ezra and Sister Hazel, but producer Rick Beato (Billionaire, Flickerstick) simply lets the music come through in a compelling major-label debut.
“Chicago” has a chorus that could find its way as a TV theme song quite easily. “Never Be the Same” is driving, Memphis-tinged ear candy, with jangly guitars and lush vocal harmonies. “Almost Perfect” is almost too perfect, very radio friendly by today’s standards and I’m not sure that’s necessarily a good thing, but I do like the song. “On My Way” is the standout track here, an ode to an ex-girlfriend that comes out sounding optimistic with a melody that will stick in your head for days. “Will I Ever Make it Home” is a deserving first single, but on ballads like “Waste it all On You” and “Maybe It’s Me,” the budding genius of Ingram Hill as songwriters starts to show. The band also shows an edge with tracks like “Hangin’ Around Again” and “To Your Grave.”
No one knows where the music industry is headed, but sure as the day is long, bands that make great music find their way.
June’s Picture Show may put Ingram Hill on the map for a while, and fans of the band will no doubt love this record. After that, it’s partially up to the Disney-owned label they’re on to give them the support they deserve. This is one for the “good guy” rock fans everywhere. Hopefully Donald Duck and Mickey are listening.
~Mike Farley
mfarley@bullz-eye.com
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