7 Sharp 9

7s9 is a three man rock band out of Atlanta, GA. According to the bio Chris Wold (Vocals, Guitar), Christopher Butler (Bass), and Zac Swanson (drums) were each accomplished musicians in their own rights before forming the band. They were voted "Best New Local Band" in the Best of Atlanta 2002 list. Gathering is their debut CD.

7 sharp 9 plays "radio style" rock 'n roll. By that I mean their music would sound right at home on most rock radio stations. The sounds range from somewhat hard edged electric to acoustic with a little pop mixed in. The result is a very commercial mix that stands out in my mind as being much less formulated than "radio rock" normally is. I would guess that comes from this being an independent production so the band had full control over the sound. At any rate, the music is very well polished and easy to listen to. As a reviewer I don't usually comment on the lyrics bands use but the one blemish on this otherwise great CD comes in "Prove You Wrong". The use of the 'F word' seems unnecessary and the emphasis it's given forces it to stand out in the melody. It reminds me of "It's been a While" by Staind which, when you hear it on the radio sounds goofy because of the empty spots where they had to blank the 'f word'. I've read the lyrics and understand the emotion the writer was pushing but I would have preferred a more creative way to express it.

Gathering is a great freshman effort and should appeal to anyone who listens to top 40 rock 'n roll. If you're looking for something that isn't being played to death check it out. Several of the tracks can be sampled off the band's web site.


Key tracks: Close, Mellow

Reviewed by: John Venvertloh
- 1340mag.com