In the vast cosmos of rock ‘n’ roll, where trends flicker and fade like stars in the night sky, UniversalDice emerges as a steady beacon of authenticity—a guiding light amidst the ever-changing landscape of the genre. With their latest single, “Once Upon A Time,” Gerry Dantone and company deliver a soul-stirring anthem that not only pays homage to the roots of classic rock but also serves as a tantalizing teaser for their upcoming fifth studio album, “Misfit Memoirs.”
From the first pulsating notes of the organ, there’s a sense of familiarity that washes over the listener—a nod to the golden age of rock music when Hammond organs ruled the airwaves. Yet, UniversalDice is not content to simply tread the well-worn paths of nostalgia. Instead, they infuse the track with a raw energy and emotional depth that is uniquely their own.
At its core, “Once Upon A Time” is a tale of resilience—a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and overcome life’s myriad challenges. Dantone’s lyrics paint a vivid portrait of a young soul thrust into the crucible of adversity, his innocence battered but never broken. Lines like “My heart was pure, but no one cared” resonate with a haunting poignancy, serving as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities that shape our lives.
Musically, “Once Upon A Time” is a masterclass in restraint and nuance. Dantone’s multi-instrumental talents are on full display as he deftly weaves together layers of sound, each one adding depth and texture to the sonic tapestry. From the haunting wail of the organ to the subtle yet powerful drum licks courtesy of Vin Crici, every note serves a purpose, guiding the listener on an emotional journey through the highs and lows of the human experience.
But it’s Dantone’s vocals that truly steal the show, imbuing each line with a raw intensity and emotional resonance that is impossible to ignore. His voice carries the weight of a lifetime of trials and tribulations, soaring to dizzying heights before plunging into the depths of despair. It’s a performance that is equal parts heartache and hope—a testament to the power of music to transcend the boundaries of language and touch the very core of our souls.
As the song draws to a close, there’s a sense of catharsis—a release of emotions pent up over a lifetime of struggles and setbacks. Yet, amidst the pain and the heartache, there is also a glimmer of hope—a flicker of light in the darkness that promises redemption and renewal. “Once Upon A Time,” UniversalDice reminds us, is not just a song—it’s a rallying cry for the resilient spirit that lies within us all.
One thing is abundantly clear: this is a band at the height of their powers, unafraid to delve into the depths of the human experience and emerge stronger and more triumphant than ever before. With “Once Upon A Time” as a tantalizing taste of what’s to come, the stage is set for UniversalDice to once again stake their claim as one of rock music’s most compelling and enduring voices. So let the countdown begin, dear readers, for “Misfit Memoirs” promises to be an album for the ages—a sonic journey through the triumphs and tribulations of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of UniversalDice’s unmistakable sound.
- review by Chadwick Easton
