Ashbrook Haynes

Written by Robert Benson


As I continue to review bands for www.ilike2rock.net Internet Radio, I have heard some fantastic music by some very talented artists. One particular band immediately caught my ears: the acoustic mastery and folk-rock sounds of Ashbrook Haynes.

For a band that had its start as a “side” project, the Leominster, Massachusetts-based group has certainly progressed into a finely meshed songwriting team. Their second CD release, “One Long Chase,” is full of catchy guitar licks, impeccable harmonies and well-crafted folk/pop rock.

For many years band members Marc Rines (vocals, guitars) and drummer Bob Soar collaborated, writing 80’s/90’s rock songs with the group Badger. Bob went on to work in studio projects while Marc played bass in a group called The Installers, which released two CDs. After seven years, Marc decided to focus on songwriting and honing his guitar skills. Karen Stanley played with The Luckless Pedestrians and then with the classic rock band The Next Five before concentrating her efforts and energy on songwriting. Paul Bradley had been playing bass with the 60’s rock band Cornerstone before joining Ashbrook Haynes. Dan Stanley was added to the mix, expertly playing lead guitar, while Paul Bradley added his signature bass lines and vocal harmonies to tie it all together. Shawn McCann’s eloquent keyboard work completes the group.

Some cuts on “One Long Chase” certainly stand out, including the infectious “How To Love,” an acoustic ditty with stellar vocal harmonies and expert musicianship. The lead-in bass lines of the funky number “Telephone Song,” immediately reel you in, and the cut progresses into a dazzling bluesy guitar break that is sure to please. “You Make Me Smile” is an instant classic, filled with old-fashioned, fun rock that is sure to get the shiest wallflower up and grooving on the dance floor. “Hold Me,” with its tight-structured guitar work, interwoven harmonies and expert lead guitar licks is another fine, acoustic pop gem.

As a creative change of pace, “When Love Finds You” is a slow-tempo, melodic cut with an exhilarating sweetness and irresistible flavor. “Restless Wind” is delicate, yet strong, and is played with obvious acoustic zest. “Today’s Another Day,” with its reflective lyrics, is an instant “fall in love the first time you hear it” song, with impeccable piano work and interwoven harmonies. It is every bit as infectious as it is original.

All in all the release “One Long Chase” is filled with catchy choruses, tasty contributions from all the band members and seductive acoustic pop. Kudos to all who had a hand in this marvelous, easily digestible pop rock masterpiece!

BAND MEMBERS:

Paul Bradley – Bass, Vocals
Shawn McCann – Keyboards, Vocals
Marc Rines – Vocals, Guitars
Bob Soar – Drums
Dan Stanley – Guitars
Karen Stanley – Vocals, Percussion

Visit the Band:

http://www.ilike2rock.net/members/150/

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=313047974