Dark Tea’s Second Album Is a Flavorful Brew

April 15, 2021 by Michela Arlia

Indie-rock and indie-folk band Dark Tea is set to release their second self-titled album on April 30, and Brooklyn Roads Magazine was offered the opportunity to listen to the album prior to its release. The L.A.-based band is represented by Brooklyn-based label Fire Talk Records, where the album was mainly recorded.

The album kicks off with a bang, including an introduction of true jazz tones in tracks such as “Tears Down the Road” that set the scene for the entire album. As singer and guitarist Gary Canino serenades, his voice carries the melodies, the instruments serving simply as a background.

Gary Canino -Guitar In Hand / photo courtesy of Fire Talk Records

The songs bring back familiar sounds in line with classics like the Zombies’ “Time of the Season,” but with modern sounds, as the use of the keys and guitar vary in each song. The album’s 12 tracks represent more of an indie-folk sound than one of indie-rock, which are two of the band’s influences.

Gary Canino / courtesy of Fire Talk Records

Also included on the album are tracks “US Blues Pt1” and “US Blues Pt2” which together, are a unique four-minute combination of sounds beginning with strict instrumental in Pt1 and pick up with accompanying vocals in Pt2. A strict cut off of sounds at the end of the Pt1 track leaves the listener to think the song has been paused, but before reaching for the play button, Canino’s vocals fill the next track, picking up right where the last one left off.

Each of the tracks has a distinct sound, all of them perfect for a rom-com montage or sequence, due to the feel-good sounds the band has produced.

In “Down for the Law,” a personal favorite and the longest track on the album, a musical interlude midway through makes it easy to get lost in the song and creates a new world of music for the listener to step into.

Full writing credit to Gary Canino on 11 of the 12 tracks is well deserved, as each track is more entertaining than the last, with infectious melodies and thought-provoking lyrics all around.

The release of the album on April 30 will be available on all platforms. Take a listen to-you won’t be disappointed . In the meantime, here’s the video of “Highway Mile”!

Artists on our Radar

Ricky Stein: Texas Roots in Brooklyn

Ricky Stein/ photo courtesy of the artist

If you’re looking for music inspired by New York City with a Texan flare, look no further than Ricky Stein, a Brooklyn-based artist originally from Austin, Texas. Stein is a singer-songwriter whose music is grounded by a combination of his upbringing in Texas and his present life in the bustling streets of New York City and Downtown Brooklyn. Stein has an impressive discography of singles and albums, and since moving to New York City in August 2016, he has released a full album, “Long Summer” and many singles. Stein’s music is best defined as Americana and roots, with folk-infused acoustic and electric guitars, and his lyrics paint vivid images of nature and life. The listener feels connected to Stein, as his musical stylings resemble talent from the likes of John Prine and Bonnie Raitt. His most recent single, “Passenger,” highlights Stein’s talents with a strong harmonica section. The song’s instrumentation and structure is built on one verse, which compliments the song’s message about the uncertainty and ominousness of being a passenger on a long journey. Another standout, “Street Lights,” is a lighthearted commentary on the comfort of hope, the street lights representing persistent light even in the dead of night. Stein’s live performances are carefully tailored, his sets performed at local venues in Brooklyn like Pete’s Candy Store and many other venues known to support live roots and country music. His talents are always showcased, whether performing a solo show with a guitar and harmonica or being supported by a full band. Stein’s upcoming months are packed with performances at many venues, including Saturday, January 11th at Skinny Dennis Bar in Williamsburg and Friday, March 7th at Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook. You won’t want to miss it!

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