In today’s world, there is not enough emphasis put on reality and authenticity. The Massacoustics set out to change that with their latest album, Water Keeps Rising. It details stories of hardship, resilience, joy, and pain in a tightly-knit sonic narrative.
The Massacoustics are an American duo of brothers from Western Massachusetts whose focus is blending roots rock, alt-country, and classic storytelling into an original raw sound. They accomplish this through gritty guitars, pounding drums, and a tight brothers’ harmony provided by Andrew and Matthew Thompson. The band’s commitment to authenticity and capturing the live concert sound is what makes them such a successful touring act, They have played on tours all across the U.S. and Europe, including Germany with Bill Wyman & the Rhythm Kings.
The Massacoustics immediately showcase their talent with Train Wreck, a song with a haunting harmony and painfully understandable lyrics. The realism of these lyrics match perfectly with the gravelly vocals that are reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen or Tom Petty’s early works. Smooth and heartfelt throughout. The guitar at the bridge of the song only enhances this, providing a strong melody that works perfectly with what they are attempting to convey about suffering.
Live Video For ‘Water Keeps Rising’
Lead single “Water Keeps Rising” is the main star of this show. The beat resonates deep, while the vocals create a sense of strength even in the hard times. Guitars shine through an epic solo. The music allows one to interpret it in whatever way works for them. That relatability is not difficult for the Massacoustics to achieve, shown off by the live music video that accompanies the track.
Toward the end of the album “Nashville” is a shift from the ache, instead focusing on accepting the pain and growing from it. The Massacoustics offer a slowed down style that allows us to take it all in. With a strong and steady beat, the song builds becoming more powerful as we listen, playing with our heartstrings instead of those on the guitar.
The end of the album shows off a lament on “Getting Out.” While seemingly simplistic, this track ties everything that has been shared in the past few songs into a neat little package. The guitar tone and soft close of the song helps the album to end on a hopeful note about getting stronger from some hard times that have been experienced.
With each song, a strong emotion is dealt with. It is real and true, and in a time where this is not deemed as important as it should be, The Massacoustics create a feeling of unity in struggle and success in getting through it. Water Keeps Rising has proven to be a strong addition to our rock and alt-country playlists.
