ALBUM REVIEW: “Different Gear, Still Speeding” by Beady Eye

Beady Eye

Different Gear, Still Speeding

[Beady Eye/Dangerbird Records LLC]

Beady Eye’s debut album, Different Gear, Still Speeding, is a fresh start to former Oasis members, Liam Gallagher, guitarist Gem Archer, and bassist Andy Bell. The expectation of Beady Eye sounding even remotely close to Oasis was quickly diminished as “Four Letter Word” introduced a familiar voice to an entirely different sound. Liam Gallagher alternates from his signature soulful croon in “The Roller” to gritty upbeat vocals in “Bring The Light.”

The entire record is a musical roller coaster with many loops and turns. At times, I am reminded of the sweet, moody melodies of The Beatles.  Then I get bitch-slapped with this rockin’ gem, “Standing On The Edge Of The Noise” and I am confused all over again.  The confusion is mostly related to the fact that I LOATHE the Beatles’ sound but yet love this song. Beady Eye delivers variety and that’s enough for me to give this my nod of approval.