Errol J.M. - Zeros and Ones (Album)
Older, mature, and with a few years of music life behind him, Errol JM is definitely not new to the music scene, and it shows through his debut EP, “Zeros and Ones”. Previously a Triple J Unearthed Winner in 1998 with his band, Muzzy Pep, Errol takes a step away from the band’s style, and takes on a bluesy, rock/pop sound.
The title track “Zeros and Ones” opens the EP with some catchy blues guitar to break out into acoustic rock song with Errol’s distinguished vocals. The song moves with ease, with the help of Errol’s catchy rhythm guitar and simple lyrics, finishing off in a typical blues rocking style.
“How Do You Sleep At Night” is more melodic and Errol’s vocals stand out the most on the EP in this track. His vocals definitely keep the song together and flowing than the other songs on his debut. Unfortunately the song never pushes in a different direction to any other rock pop song but still get the feet tapping with the heavier guitar riffs.
Again, Errol’s vocals almost take another direction and style. “Pieces to Quiet” is personally a stand out track on the EP, with a relaxed rhythm (Chapman’s “Fast Car) and Harrison’s “My Sweet Lord” feel. His lyrics are best on this song, with simple rhythm and production, and it really shows his song writing credibility.
There’s a real 80’s feel to “Reservations Toward Belief”, right from the guitars, drums, beats, and even the smoother vocals coming from Errol. If there is anything missing from this track, it’s some real synthesizer work…because there’s never a point the song shines. The lyrics are pretty average, but the drumming from Luke Bennet definitely draws attention to the beat of the song.
There will always be a softer song on any release, and “Fighting for Air” definitely fills this slot. A psychedelic feel flows through with the lead guitar during the chorus, taking the attention away from Errol’s troubles of reaching some higher notes. The song has plenty of potential again, like “Reservations Toward Belief” but I personally think there’s a lot of room for improvement in Errol’s song writing. Maybe this solo career will take him further than Muzzy Pep did…
