Time

In the Spring of 2003 Time released their debut album Falling to a legion of 1100 fans at the famed Florida Theater in the band’s hometown of Gainesville. The attendance was a refreshing surprise for a band who month’s prior were virtually unknown in the thriving Gainesville music scene. The release was a groundswell of sorts for the young band who unleashed a marketing onslaught of self-promotion, coupled with an energetic live show and songs that resonated with those in attendance. Time had established themselves as a headlining act in Gainesville.

Although Falling was the impetus for a more focused charge, the debut lacked the sonic quality the band needed to launch Time on a national or even regional level. The solution to the band’s recording dilemma came as songs from Falling were featured on XM Radio, national compilations and soon caught the ear of producer Ted Comerford (EBO, Evoka, Red Wanting Blue) and mixer Paul Hagar (Avril Lavigne, Hoobastank, American Hi-Fi) who paired up to record the band for the better part of 2004.

Primary songwriters Steve Garrett (vocals) and Dean Newman (guitar) worked to refine songs from the band’s debut and introduce new material in anticipation of the recording sessions. The band and Comerford’s, collaboration represented a unique dichotomy in respect to the development of the songs and recording. Garrett and Newman’s songs are influenced by many of the post-grunge rock acts of the late 90’s and Comerford incorporated his penchant for electronic music, borrowing from influences ranging from U2 records from the late 90’s and even Nine Inch Nails. The result is Better Off, a markedly more mature song oriented album that merges rock with melody and electronic nuances.

In addition to the writing and producer force behind the band, drummer Steve Julian comes from the hard rock school of percussion, while bassist Joe Palmer is rooted in early funk and classic rock. Each bring with them another dynamic to the band that could derail the continuity of the songs, but instead the diversity in musical styles makes Better Off a mainstream effort layered with subtleties worth delving into.

While the band has worked hard to succeed, they readily admit they don’t take it all too seriously. They aren’t trying to become something they’re not. From the opening salvo, of “Face Them Now” to the outro of “Don’t Look”, it’s apparent Time are writing songs about topics they can relate to; love, moving on, and rite of passage. Better Off is a well-crafted unpretentious effort with a few twists and turns along the way to keep the listener engaged.

In February 2005, George Marino (The Hives, Velvet Revolver, The Cure) mastered Better Off adding the final touch to a project the band strived to accomplish near perfection. It’s apparent that Better Off is the result of a diligent and resourceful band headed for success. As the band prepare for the record release in Spring ’05, the band are hitting the road to begin what they hope becomes yet another groundswell.