Moe Green’s Eye: Fast Radio Bursts Live EP: Groovy

A local trio composed of three veteran players, Moe Green’s Eye have recently begun to make a name for themselves in the NYC live scene over the past few months, leading up to the release of their four-song live debut EP Fast Radio Bursts. Their reputation as a live band has drawn them to many iconic local venues throughout the New York and New Jersey area, which in turn is a feat of its own given the competitive market of the area. This live reputation is something they live up to. Being that the debut EP was recorded live in session, you can expect to get the same experience listening at home that you would as if you were packed into Arlene’s Grocery on a Saturday night.

The first track is appropriately titled “Fixed”, given that your ears will be fixed to the rhythm section the whole time. Immediately after the introduction of over modulated lead guitar reminiscent of The Cure, you begin to notice how in-touch Moe’s rhythm section is, with bass licks clicking perfectly in time with drummer Bob Gallagher. Though the vocal approach is very in your face, you can’t help but groove with the rhythm section, especially during the slow mid section breakdown that screams Geoff Tate era Queensryche.

The EP then flows into “Stay” which speaks for itself because the repeat button seems like a common place for this track. Although we’re again greeted with modulated guitar and a Bryan Adams feel, the song is catchy as hell! It has easy potential as a single, with a fierce vocal attack by Anthony Galati and that beautiful rhythm section again. This combination of sweet sounds collectively produced what is by far the strongest track on the EP.

Leading into “It’s Over Now,” you’re greeted with a tight intro that is maintained by all three members into the verse and beyond. There is some great heavy playing by the trio that almost greets the listener into thinking there might be some 80’s prog influence, something along the lines of Asia perhaps. Again we see a trend that greets the entirety of the EP – that 1980s driven guitar saturated with modulation and chorus. At this point, you want to hear some new sounds coming from the lead guitar. There seems to be a bit more effort put into the vocals here with the powerful “Have you ever felt like you were wasting your time?” ringing out similar to Bob Dylan’s iconic “How does it feel?” from “Like a Rolling Stone.” Overall a well-done track, showcasing the musicianship of the trio.

The EP closes with a song entitled “What About Time”, and frankly, what about it? The track failed to live up to the previous pieces of the debut not because it wasn’t well thought out or well rehearsed, but because it simply lacked character. Maybe the song has more potential to click in a live setting, half way through the set to keep it alive, but on a record that should have ended with a band, it instead fizzled out.

Hearing the band’s debut EP gives one hope for the potential revival of a nostalgic genre. The band beautifully executes what can be heard as a blend of new wave post-punk with touches of Queensryche and mid 80s prog tossed about. The record is highly recommended for anyone stuck inside, who wants to break out and into a local show.