Half Drawn
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Half Drawn

Reading, Pennsylvania, United States | SELF

Reading, Pennsylvania, United States | SELF
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"Local band Half Drawn holding CD release show Saturday at Reverb!!"

The hard rockers' debut CD - a long time in the making - will be released at a show Saturday at Reverb in Reading.

The local band Half Drawn celebrates the release of its debut CD with a show Saturday night at Reverb in Reading. Members are, from left, Robert Tyrrell, Nick Schwenk, Jayme Hinnershitz and Javier Pedraza.
Club Reverb, the new music venue in Reading, continues to make a name for itself for presenting music of all genres on the regional and national levels. This Saturday will be no exception when the local act Half Drawn will celebrate the long-awaited release of its first CD, "Breaking Free." And "long-awaited" is, in this case, not hyperbole.

The hard rock band consists of Nick Schwenk on vocals, Jayme Hinnershitz on drums, Javier Pedraza on bass and Robert Tyrrell on guitar.

Formed in 2004 when the band played its first live show, the act has drawn many fans.

But Pedraza and Tyrrell have been planning this moment for an even longer time. The two were best friends growing up and have been playing music together for over a decade.

Tyrrell recalls his childhood: "As long as I can remember, I was involved with music. Two of the most inspirational people I knew - my uncle and my dad - played, and I grew up with it. Ever since I could hold a guitar, I'd be practicing and playing."

Meanwhile, Pedraza loved music as well, but in a different sort of way.

"Whenever my family went anywhere, I always had a Walkman," he said. "I was always listening to music. But I didn't start getting into playing until Robert was playing stuff when I used to hang out at his house."

When his parents bought Pedraza a bass guitar for his birthday, the first thing he did was call his best friend.

"Guess what I got for my birthday?" he remembers saying, and then playing some notes on the bass.

Reportedly, Tyrrell replied, "Cool! A drum set!"

Pedraza laughs about it now.

"I was playing it so bad!" he said.

But even after officially forming a band and playing that first gig in 2004, Half Drawn took a long road to this moment.

When finally working on their first CD a few years ago, the band sort of reached a crisis point - the music just didn't seem to reflect what the band was going for. So, they started again (in the process losing a member or two) in an effort to get it exactly right.

"We hit the pause button," noted Tyrrell, "and sort of started over."

In that reboot, the band found a new drummer from its small legion of fans. Hinnershitz, a fan of the band and just now 18 years old, tried out and joined Half Drawn, which makes Saturday's show especially special, since, while recording this album, the band has not played live shows. So Saturday's show will Hinnershitz's first live show with this - or any - band.

It should prove to be a remarkable night for a group of musicians who have been meticulous and gotten everything right.

Half Drawn's music is heavy, but it's also melodic. The group clearly grew up loving (among other genres) grunge and modern alternative rock. Think Staind or Breaking Benjaman or Papa Roach and you have an idea of the music you'll hear on Saturday. And if you do go, you'll be hearing some good music that has gone through a long and determined evolution.

The show begins at 7. Also appearing will be Spinebelt, After 3 AM and Adenaphine. The show is all ages, with an over-21 section for those at the bar who wish to drink.

Tickets are $10 at the door, or $8 in advance, and those buying in advance have the chance to buy pre-released CDs from the band. There will also be free stickers, posters and glow sticks on hand for the evening.

For more information, go to www.halfdrawn.com or the site for Reverb at www.reverbconcerts.com.

E-mail Jim Speese: weekend@readingeagle.com. - By Jim Speese, Reading Eagle Newspaper


"Album Review of Half Drawn's "Breaking Free""

In the current climate of singles being the drawing power in bringing in new ears for new music, the concept of whole album sales have been on the decline. This is in part due to entities like iTunes and the sort gaining a greater market share compared to retailers of tangible records like Best Buy. In fact, record stores inside local malls have gone the way of the horse and carriage. Sure, you still see them, but mostly in a novelty sort of manner.

This brings me to my review of Half Drawn’s Breaking Free LP, released this past June. Different from prior generations of reviews where an album would be mailed off, then given a listen, followed by the review being sent back, I gained immediate access to Breaking Free at the very moment I was asked to review it. Granted, I enjoy the instantaneous satisfaction this brings to my occupation. However, I can’t shake the feeling that having something to hold, and artwork to view in tandem with list of songs offered up by Half Drawn, would further expand my listening pleasure. To be candid, I had to wonder if bands still arrange their tracks in a certain order with the intent of painting a considerable larger picture than the individual songs themselves. Breaking Free does this with a bravura comprised of a musical palette that can only be appreciated when listening to the tracks in order from the first to the last.

Given the secret link to Breaking Free … I was also directed: “do not pass out.” I may have misunderstood the request, but I thought “This album won’t make me faint, will it?” While I am happy to say that I did not lose consciousness, I now understand why ladies pass out in droves when witnessing their idols perform on stage.

As a general rule, I don’t include lyrics in my reviews, simply for the reason that I feel it doesn’t serve the nature of the song as it is implemented. What I can say, is that lyrical arrangement throughout Breaking Free is both clichéd and innovative, simultaneously. From “Flying” “Ascension” “Clear Water” “Masquerade” and “Taken for Granted” …the overarching journey is laid out through the strength of guitars and reinforced through the percussion of drums. It has been a great deal of time since I have just laid back and listened to an album in this fashion. Half Drawn returned me to a time when music was my very being.

I continue on with “Veil of Vanity” “Seven” “Ravenous” along with “Head Held High.” The symbolism illustrates an epic pinnacle. The vocals beseech a hardened sense of emotion whilst the language defies an interior agony. The music carries the listener effortlessly though impending melodies and harrowing vibrations of guitar strings. The highs and lows go beyond the notes, penetrating the soul.
The conclusion arrives represented by “God Save the Queen” and “Syphon.” Half Drawn’s Breaking Free delivers in every aspect to what the components of an album should be. I found myself looking up www.halfdrawn.com to research when the next release could be expected.

I would like to extend my personal thanks to Nick Schwenk (vocals), Jayme Hinnershitz (drums), Javier Pedraza (bass) and Robert Tyrrell (guitar), for the reminder that an album doesn’t have to be tangible to have substance. - By Riley Alden, The Portal Magazine


"Album Review of Half Drawn's "Breaking Free""

Half Drawn “Breaking Free”
Posted on July 12, 2011

Half Drawn begins their album Breaking Free with a hauntingly melodic intro full of elegant piano playing that will catch the heart in between beats. The vocals are distorted and distant, which adds to the ethereal vibe of this short and beautiful intro.

Having been momentarily lulled into a soft quiet place, the hard hitting notes of “Ascension” shocks the body into overdrive. The track begins with a heaviness that is not expected but quickly turns into a lyrically sound piece dealing with the endless circle of love and life. Giving a sense of comfort and hope, Half Drawn has coupled heavy riffs with a melody that is achingly beautiful and lyrics that enlighten.

“Clearwater” continues in this vein with a melodic rhythm and thought-provoking lyrics that are delivered with emotion. The instrumentation is well-executed throughout and the sound quality is clear and professional. This is a solid offering that will become a staple in any music lover’s collection. “Masquerade” hits a bit harder with guitar chords that have an edge to them. With a slightly angry undertone, this piece shows a heavier side to Half Drawn that will please fans of hard rock and get some heads banging.

Breaking Free rocks seamlessly onward with “Taken For Granted,” which carries a smooth rhythm and some exceptional guitar work. This catchy track will be a treat to see performed live. As with each preceding track on the album, the lyrics are very well-written and will hit home with people from all walks of life; this is Half Drawn’s biggest asset, aside from their stellar playing. “Veil of Vanity” slows the pace down a bit and listeners will be captivated immediately as the soothing melody washes over them. The vocals are executed with skill and grace and this is one of the more intriguing pieces on the album. The song will call to people and reach into the depths of their souls.

“Seven” has an edginess to it that highlights Half Drawn’s exceptional sound and strong vocals. From soft ballads to crunching chords, this band covers the board with regards to changing up their delivery. Each song has similarities, but each song is also unique in itself, and listeners will appreciate this. “Ravenous” is an intricate piece with excellent sound quality. The production and engineering on Breaking Free has been wonderful throughout, but on this track in particular listeners will gain a greater appreciation for the crisp, clean sound as each note is heard clearly.

“Head Held High” has some of the best lyrics yet and listeners will relate to them easily, dealing with feelings of betrayal, anger and love. Half Drawn has shown repeatedly that they are masters of songwriting. “God Save The Queen” is one of the slower and more melodic tracks that this band does so well. Leaving fans with a sense of unity amongst heartbreak, this song will be the one everyone clamors to see performed live.

Breaking Free closes with “Siphon” and it’s a powerful note to end on. Half Drawn leaves listeners with the sensation that this album needs another spin, immediately. The flow of song placement is genius and the album unfolds smoothly, always keeping listeners engaged. The songs themselves are full of dashes of brilliance and heart-wrenching melodies that will remain long after the songs are over. Lyrically, Half Drawn is an extremely versatile band that has mastered the art of putting emotions into words and those words to music. The instrumentation, vocalization, and overall production throughout are rife with talent and professionalism. Breaking Free is a must-have for anyone who enjoys excellent music and honest lyrics.

Rating: 4 stars (out of 5)
- Review by Rhonda Readence, ReviewYou.com


"Album Review of Half Drawn's "Breaking Free""

I've found that needle in the haystack, and it was Half Drawn! The debut album by this
Pennsylvania band of rockers is titled 'Breaking Free' and is nothing short of
incredible. I am especially impressed by the fact that this is the band's first time
releasing an album together, and it sounds so good. The lead vocal is one of the best
in the business too.

Of the 11 songs on 'Breaking Free', my favorite has to be "Taken For Granted"
because the guitar chops are freaking rock hardcore and the message is great! It's a
song about how some people take life for granted and don't appreciate anything. The
lead vocal is really strong and clear, making for the perfect icing on the song. Great
tune by a great band.

"Seven" also rocks hardcore. Another display of greatness by a band that deserves a
great deal of success, this song is another favorite of mine by Half Drawn. This song is
all about telling someone about themselves. We all know someone who thinks they're
always right, and this is the anthem of the people who hate that kind of person. Great
song guys!

Other great songs on Half Drawn's 'Breaking Free' album include: "Ravenous", "Head
Held High", and "God Save The Queen". All great songs; all great music; all worth
buying. Overall, this band is top notch, Grade A rock music. Now stop reading this
review and go buy it already. Let's help keep great music alive.

MUSICAL GOAL: "Our ultimate goal is for our music to reach out and touch as many
individuals in this world as possible. We create music that many people can relate to,
about real everyday issues in people's lives." - Half Drawn

Review by: Senseitional - Review by Senseitional, I AM ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE(Aug 10, 2011)


Discography

Half Drawn - "Breaking Free" - June 21st, 2011

Photos

Bio

Half Drawn was born in the summer of 2004, in the outskirts of Reading, PA. In the wake of "grunge" rock, and the birth of "Nu-Metal", Half Drawn was determined to create a sound to honor the forefathers of rock, yet continue the evolution of modern music.

Half Drawn began writing all original compositions in the summer of 2004, and quickly made their way into the local music scene, immediately entering an Open Mic Night contest @ Chucker Chubbs Bar and Grill, in late August of 2004. After several weeks of competition Half Drawn took home the grand prize as the winner of the Open Mic Night competition.

Not long after their accomplishment in competition, Half Drawn, quickly moved to performing full time in the local music scene at venues such as: Richapalooza, Jessup Musik Fest, Fetzer Fest, Crock Rock, Chameleon Club, Alexanders, Cookie's, Chucker Chubb's, The Silo Nightclub, The Wheelie Bar, and more.

Half Drawn has shared the stage with many National Acts throughout their career, including: Red, Social Burn, Wednesday 13, Deadstar Assembly, Egypt Central, and more. While maintaining their "approachable" personalities, Half Drawn has gained a proud reputation of professionalism and solid work ethic with promoters and colleagues alike.

After years of fine-tuning, line changes, and a progression of genres, Half Drawn has finally produced the product they have been determined to deliver for several years, with their long awaited debut album, "Breaking Free" , set to release in stores worldwide June 21st , 2011. Proving to fans and peers alike that, "Good things come to those who wait."