Hi-Stone Social – Vamp (Single Review)

Today’s review features the new single “Vamp” by Hi-Stone Social.

Hi-Stone Social is a studio music project centered on original songs by Don Kushon. The genres include rock, pop, folk rock, blues and spoken word all delivered with a retro feel. The core band on this self-titled album consists of Kushon on lead vocals, guitar, harmonica and ukulele, Paul Shannon on lead guitar and backing vocals, Frank Innamorato on drums and JT on bass.

The album was co-produced by Mark J Montoro and Don Kushon. It was recorded and engineered by Montoro at Philly JAM Recording in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and mastered by Pete Humphreys at Masterwork. Artwork was designed by Pat King.

This song, Vamp, explores the search for love and connection despite all the landmines that may exist in life. Kushon’s vocals are influenced by growing up in the foothills of Appalachia and then relocating to the deeply layered musical ecosystem of Philadelphia. Paul Shannon further colors the vocals with harmony.

So let’s have a listen …

The song starts off strong with an electric guitar and harmonica playing the same riff. The vocals come in, I really like the male vocals on this song. The lyrics are clever. The main rhythm on this song is a 2 chord “vamp”, which ties in nicely with the name of the song. Where the second chorus would go, the band opts instead for a slightly altered bridge, followed by a lead guitar solo over the main vamp. Third verse, third chorus. Fourth verse, back to the bridge. Another lead guitar solo, a bit sloppy. Back into the chorus. I love the wordplay in this song, the reference to vampires, and calling the vamp girl “nasty,” which is how the song abruptly ends.
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I wouldn’t call this a rock song as much as it is straight-ahead blues. Blues being one of my favorite genres. I can see this song catching on at your local blues gig. It’s simple in its structure, but has very catchy lyrics. The lead guitar playing is adequate, but not exceptional; but, it fills the voids.

SCORE/Excellent: Hi-Stone Social delivers a raucous blues vamp with their new single “Vamp.” Excellent performances with just the right amount of sass. The girl’s a vamp, and so is this song. It fits together nicely, and is a great addition to your ears. Much love, Beth

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