April 3, 2008
Based around the vocal talents and identity of Troy Michael Petty, the Chicago-based three-piece “troy” delivers a minimalistic yet hauntingly powerful alternative, softer rock experience. In addition to a continued presence on the live music scene since 2000, troy released the full length album ‘So The Past Shall Pass’ in 2001, followed ‘holloweenie 2003_, a six song EP in 2003. The double album ‘gemini’ was released in 2004/2005, and most recently ‘The Halloween Album’ in 2006. The 2005 single ‘I for One’ was also featured in the independent film ‘Black Days’.
Petty’s highly introspective lyrics reflect thoughts of love, isolation and the human spirit, presenting a thought-provoking emotional honesty. However, the true spell-binding grip of troy’s music comes from the interaction of Petty’s vocal abilities with the haunting melodies and soft reverbs provided by Petty, drummer Jay Will and bassist/pianist Joshua McCormack. Such is Petty’s vocal talent that it is easy to see the relevance of previous comparisons to Jeff Buckley. This is best demonstrated in the almost chilling and vocally dominated ‘All the wise men’.
Equally adept over electric or acoustic backing, in songs such as ‘Fable’ Petty’s vocals seamlessly weave into intense and entrancing guitars and rhythm. More frequently in tracks such as ‘I will miss you this Halloween’ and ‘Ride’, Petty exhibits a remarkable ability to create dynamic contrasts over low-key backgrounds that emphasise his lyrics and provide a raw yet subtle power very rarely found in this genre. This seemingly natural ability to create intensity ensures troy’s music remains uncomplicated, and allows them to deliver an introspective vision free from pretentiousness.
Unlike many softer rock bands that tend towards easy listening, troy have produced music of remarkable intensity and intrigue that envelopes listeners from the outset. Troy’s music is highly unique, and a must for fans of alternative rock.
Owen Jago - Indie In-Tune (Apr 3, 2008)