VITNE (Joseph Kimbrell) is a fascinating project based out of Norway headed up by VITNE who also plays Lead and backing vocals, flute, guitars, bass, synth. In his own words: I am simply a man who watches the world and experiences life. I create music that I believe in, music that documents my own struggles and victories and beliefs. Hopefully it will make you think and reflect on your own situation in life. If my music inspires you, motivates change, gives hope, or somehow touches you in a positive way, I’m Honored. Each and every day is a new day – you decide your fate… you decide your actions. Remember, make them memorable and meaningful. I’m doing the best I can every day. My music is free…because I believe. Band members include: Vitne: Lead and backing vocals, flute, guitars, bass, synth, Julian Angel: Lead guitar,
Phil Robertson: Drums on “Misery” and “The Ocean”,, Matthew Sean Reynolds: Drums on “Endless Blue”
First up Track 1 “Rain of Hope” serves up an enticing bass guitar ridden intro roove meshed against hypnotic feel that leads you head first into Track 2 “Endless Blue” a rocked out intro piece with strong melody and impressive harmonies with empowering vocals from VITNE. These first 2 intro tracks set the tone rather well for a dynamic yet rocking EP like this. Track 3 “Himitsu-Village of the Sea” shifts gears a bit that methodically builds into a passionate musical statement complete with impassioned vocal presence and well placed Flute. Track 4 “Serenity” serves up yet another superb melodic ballad that flows and ebbs its way through to emotional fruition. As these songs slowly unfolded I could hear many musical influences reminiscent of classic Adam Lambert, The Verve, Radiohead, Fall Out Boy, The Killers, The Strokes and Chevelle to Ministry. Sometimes he remind me of Muse. I would classify the music of VITNE as melodic Rock, Alternative Rock, with a slight aftertaste of Progressive Punk and even trippy Psychedelic ambience that is unpredictable and melodic. I can even hear remnants of Neo-Classical. The songs themselves are addictive, eccentric, fascinating, and very interesting – all reflections of the artist. VITNE by the way means “Witness” in Norwegian. One can’t notice intellectual, passionate and powerful subject matter delivered between the spoken word, with a heavy dose of raw truth and bi-polar vocal emotion every now and then. The musicianship from all members are rock solid across the board. VITNE and company showcase rock solid production instants throughout. Besides the 4 piece standard you will also notice things like thick low end beats and rhythms, melodic keyboards and synthesizers, flute strings, piano, solo guitar, synthetic sound effects and lush harmonies all built upon a thick as a brick rhythm section. VITNE has amazing power, control and intensity throughout. He has a good voice and it almost sounds as if he’s been classically trained at some point. He has a Theatre voice. Equally as impressive is the how well this band makes the distinct and strong (singer to listener) vocal connection. VITNE has has an appealing timber and crisp, sharp baritone and takes many impressive vocal risks throughout each song. The songs themselves are reckless, progressive and packed to the hilt with raw intensity and lyrical content straight from the neurotic psyche. VITNE’s vocal style works with respect to this style of music with its stereotypical jagged edge delivery. What I like most about the music is its intensity, intellectualism and consistency. All songs are short and sweet musical experiences, never too winded. Music is quite dynamic as you never really know what’s around the corner. All engineering aspects check out. Music possesses solid low end punch and crystal clear high end clarity. To my favorite track “Misery” to methodical “The Ocean” these new songs have something for just about everyone.
I typically deduct 1 start or EP releases anyway. All songs under 2 minutes feel like incomplete statements to me..
In close “Endless Blue” by VITNE is a highly original, somewhat unpredictable EP via a fascinating musical experience from start to finish. Although it’s primarily alt-rock based and like I said before – you never know what’s coming round the corner with this band. The music is fresh and highly entertaining. Its strong suit – its amazing vocal presence and impressive songwriting finesse by VITNE – who also has a good young look that’s very marketable. The songs are extremely melodic, passionate, and captivating and somewhat dark and unpredictable. All these songs have a ring of truth to them. Each song possesses a unique personality, flair, and signature groove. VITNE is a surging Norwegian artist for many reasons armed with a brilliant perspective an amazing voice to inspire your vivid imagination. Need I say more?
Cyrus Rhodes
Artist: VITNE
Album: Endless Blue
Label: Independent Artist
Website: http://www.vitne.net/
Genre: Alternative Rock, Psychedelic Rock, Progressive Hard Rock, Classical
Sounds Like: Adam Lambert, The Verve, Radiohead, Fall Out Boy, The Killers, The Strokes, Misery
Technical Grade: 9/10
Production/Musicianship Grade: 9/10
Commercial Value: 8/10
Overall Talent Level: 9/10
Songwriting Skills: 8/10
Performance Skill: 9/10
Best Songs: Misery, Rain of Hope, Endless Blue
Weakness: EP release, 1 Short Sided Songs
