Stage Buzz and Spin: Blockchain Coalition • Postmodern Distraction Album Release Show • Tailgaters • Bolingbrook
Blockchain Coalition
Postmodern Distraction
(Blockchain Coalition)
Chicago heavy harmonic rockers Blockchain Coalition return with a gratifying and solid follow-up to their 2023 standout debut album, The New Normal, proving they have the chops to deliver another strong set of music after a three-year layoff. Born from the ashes of the beloved Veilside (along with Onyx and Aeth3r), the band immerses listeners in Matt Rhodes’ crunchy guitar hooks, Louis Paskalides’ soaring keyboards, anthemic tracks, and layered harmonies reminiscent of Bon Jovi and Fuel. Vocalist Tony Engel’s alternating smooth and gruff baritone vocals avoid metal clichés with smart lyrics, especially on “This Empty Chair,” and album opener “Get a Little Closer.” Bassist Bob Berg and drummer Ron Thomas show their chops on the Prog-ish “Walk Away” and 80s-ish anthem “Dreamin.”
While many modern bands jump on trends, using Auto-Tune and falling back on well-worn formulas, Blockchain Coalition eschews it all for classic sounds on Postmodern Distraction.
Blockchain Coalition has no sophomore slump, checking all the boxes for fans of layered, anthemic rock.
Rating: 8 out of 10
-David Gedge
Appearing Saturday, September 19 at Tailgaters in Bolingbrook with Society of Hoodlums.
Category: Featured, Spins, Stage Buzz
