THE SPEAKS - "This is the Time" EP

Originally I discovered this band on youtube and I was impressed with their video and crowd reaction, even though it was in a small private gathering. So I searched them out on myspace and thankfully the boys sent me some of their tunes. The Speaks are from Washington. The band is Raf Toledo on vocals, Jerry Delino on bass, Archie Dela Cruz on guitar, Derek Lee on drums and Cal Stamp on guitar.

They play a rich blend of songs with influences from right across the board. But The Speaks have originality and most of their songs come into their own and just blow me away each time I hear them. In frontman Raf Toledo they have a guy who will someday soon be commanding audiences all over the world as he captivates them with crowd waving ballads like 'Nowhere Fast' through to the amazing hard hitting catchy guitar drilling 'Carpe Diem'. This is one of those songs that have a modern feel coupled with a slight Honeymoon Suite edge. I just love this song, it's fresh and powerful and Raf just signs his ass off. Honestly this guy should be up on their big stages; this song and the whole band rip and sound like they are having so much fun.

The chugging 'Fallen Angel' is stunning, honestly you will be hooked the first time you hear this song. Raf again shows off his amazing voice, which is towering, this song is melodic and modern with raw riffs. 'Tomorrow' starts with delicate riffs that are reminiscent of Flea from Red Hot Chilli Peppers, then that voice floats in and wow, this is sung with so much captivating power and emotion that I'm left scratching my head as to why The Speaks remain unsigned, this is just magic. A modern track mixed with a strong Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters and Stone Temple Pilots feel, awesome.

'Regret' is heavy and gritty with excellent shred work and 'Nowhere Fast' is another superb song, very mellow but still melodic and by rights should be a hit. The production of these songs is excellent and I want to hear more, which I'm sure, will be happening very soon.

There is a fresh energy going down here. The Speaks are a special band, they are gonna be big!! Check them out at www. myspace. com/thespeaks and www. thespeaks. com and check out the aforementioned video at http://www. youtube. com/watch?v=EsdlV9WEX2A

Nicky Baldrian