Gary Dranow-Destiny Road
Gary Dranow has one of those elusive tones. I don’t talk about his instruments, but his phrasing. He and his band, The Manic Emotions, have brought about a unique spectrum, something that is extremely rare nowadays. It is a comfortable slice between Peter Frampton and Gary Moore, if they were to collaborate. This might seem absurd now, but hear it in his single, Destiny Road. With a synth punch and the band kicking in together, this is something you don’t hear much now. People try to build to their sound, but Gary Dranow gives you the whole story together. A beautiful guitar intro brings us into their well sculpted verse. The arrangement keeps the song exciting, trying to blend in the fresh aspects of instrumentals and the lyrical surrealism. The breaks also focus on the magic of the guitar and the kind of shift it can bring, to the style. I’ve loved the synth sound for the entirety of the song, almost carrying the background till it hands the baton to the guitar. This is a song I can definitely hear in films that would be defined by songs, such as Rock of Ages and maybe in The Karate Kid follow-up series, Cobra Kai. It has the definitive early 70s rock touch to it, yet has the soul to ride in to any rock packed film or series. Listen to Fool Outta Me and & Twisted Minds as well, to see his entire dynamic range!
Gary Dranow-Twisted Minds
Gary Dranow is kicking sound into a gear many of us will never know. He already has his release Destiny Road out, a Peter Frampton style track with some manic instrumentals. Now, we look at an overlooked but rock heavy track by him. This is his superb single, Twisted Minds. Some people search frantically for a road trip rock song. When you’re sick and tired of Whitesnake and Scorpions, understand there are some other axe wielders. Here, Gary Dranow brings his Deep Purple love out, with synth and guitar heavy rhythm. The layers and mix allows the track to be appreciated for the pub swinger that it is. The guitar licks have a delicious tang to it, something that puts it apart from pop punk drillers. While some rock tracks linger around the outside, you are invited for a sound spiral with this exciting and intriguing number. The guitar solo is exceptional, tasteful and melodically phrased. You’ll be repeatedly blasting this through your car till the trip ends. Special thanks to the keys solo as well!Films like Easy Rider and Dazed & Confused with Almost Famous come to mind. These are tracks where you go the distance, face changes head on and definitely rock on. The group in question is against all odds, and brings its own dynamic that is the showstopper and essential premise. Gary Dranow is the master orchestrator, and he has managed to conjure a vibe more powerful than most chart toppers have in the past few years. Rock out to his track and follow him!
Gary Dranow - Mellow Drama
Gary Dranow and Jerry Manfredis’ latest track, “Mellow Drama,” is a refreshing and emotive addition to the band’s genre-defying collection of songs. The song’s poignant lyrics explore the complexities of friendship, mental health, and the struggles of living a life dedicated to art. The track opens with a powerful statement, “You think it’s easy, being your friend,” setting the tone for a candid and honest reflection on the challenges of being a supportive friend. Gary’s raspy voice drips with emotion, infusing each line with sincerity and depth. The band’s musicianship shines through in the understated yet effective arrangement, with the bluesy guitar riffs and Tommy Mars’ subtle keyboard melodies providing the perfect backdrop for Gary’s vocals. The rhythm section, composed of Sherm Tate on bass and vocals, and Marty Steinberg and Jethro DeFries on drums, lays down a solid foundation, allowing "Mellow Drama" to build and soar to its cathartic climax. A dose of blues rock from Gary Dranow “Mellow Drama” is a poignant reminder that sometimes we need to step back and take care of ourselves, even if it means letting go of a friendship that is causing more harm than good. The repeated refrain, “This doesn’t mean I’m not your friend,” emphasizes the depth of care and concern that underlies the difficult decision to distance oneself from someone who is struggling. The song would be a perfect fit for movies that represent the depths of friendship and comradery. Movies like Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants and Spiderman Homecoming would indeed benefit from the addition of this track. Gary Dranow and Jerry Manfredi have clearly won the hearts of their fans with their artistic expression and are the next big thing to look out for in the Indie rock scene.
Gary Dranow - Day I Was Born
The latest track by Gary Dranow, "Day I Was Born" is a hard-hitting blues rock number that showcases his exceptional musical skills and songwriting abilities. The track kicks off with an infectious 12-bar blues guitar riff that immediately grabs the listener's attention. From there, the song builds into a full-on rock anthem, with Dranow's powerful vocals and driving guitar leading the charge. One of the standout elements of "Day I Was Born" is the mix of the track. The warm tube overdriven guitar tones cut through the mix like a hot knife through butter, giving the song a raw, gritty quality that is perfect for the blues rock genre. The drums and bass are also perfectly mixed, providing a solid foundation for Dranow's guitar work and vocals. Overall, the production on this track is top-notch, and it's clear that a lot of care and attention went into getting the sound just right. The songwriting on "Day I Was Born" is also exceptional. The lyrics tell a story of personal reflection and growth. Written in collaboration with Jerry Manfredi, the song is a part of his upcoming record titled Destiny Road. Gary Dranow and his high-octane music perfect for thrillers! If "Day I Was Born" were to be featured in a movie, it would fit well into the action or sports genres. The song's driving energy and powerful guitar riffs would be perfect for a high-octane car chase scene or a thrilling sports montage. Two specific movies that come to mind are "Baby Driver" (2017), an action-packed heist film with an incredible soundtrack, and "Remember the Titans" (2000), a sports drama about a high school football team that defies racial tensions to win the championship. In conclusion, "Day I Was Born" is a standout track from Gary Dranow that showcases his exceptional artistic vision. The lyrics are heartfelt and relatable, and the chorus is undeniably catchy. This is a must-listen for fans of blues rock, and it's clear that Gary Dranow is an indie artist to watch in the coming years.
GARY DRANOW - THE KING IS DEAD
Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions deliver a blues rock masterpiece with their latest track, "The King Is Dead," from their highly anticipated album 'Destiny Road.' From the very beginning, the listener is captivated by the soaring guitar solo that sets the stage for a musical journey inspired by legends such as Queen, Led Zeppelin, and The Eagles. Gary Dranow effortlessly combines elements of classic rock with a contemporary indie pop sensibility, resulting in a refreshing and unique sound. The rich melody line and solid songwriting instantly grab your attention, making "The King Is Dead" a standout track in the indie pop scene. The songwriting by Gary Dranow is impeccable. The bridge section showcases the band's musical prowess with an impressive turnaround and a catchy chordal progression. The way the instruments come together in this section creates a mesmerizing soundscape that lingers in your mind long after the song is over. The bass holds the low end flawlessly, providing a punchy foundation for the guitars to shine as they take centre stage. A Genre-Defying Blues Rock Anthem That Soars with Emotion by Gary Dranow The mix of the track is expertly crafted, with attention to detail in the stereo field, creating a sense of depth and space. The vocal compression ensures that the vocals cut through the mix with clarity and power, allowing the emotional delivery of the lyrics to shine through. The drumkit dynamics are skillfully controlled, providing a solid and dynamic backbone to the song. "The King Is Dead" by Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions would find a natural fit in two adventure/drama films that embrace the spirit of its genre-blending sound: "Into the Wild" and "Silver Linings Playbook." The song's indie blues essence, combined with its uplifting energy and heartfelt lyrics, would beautifully complement the emotional journeys depicted in these movies. In other news, the first single from Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotion's new album Never Give Up, 18, It's Alright! on the 12th of July, which is set to be a double album with 24 exciting new songs. To conclude, with their powerful blend of blues, rock, and indie influences, Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions are undoubtedly making their mark on the global music industry!
Gary Dranow-The Cry of War
We at Indiemusicflix, love Gary Dranow. There is something about his easy demeanour in composing and performing that makes him a quintessential godfather of indie rock. We may have described him as Tom Petty, contemporary Bob Dylan and more in this duration of listening to and reviewing his music. Let that all go, for Gary just went Ozzy on us. This is his latest single, The Cry of War. Now, we’ve heard umpteen tracks on war. The late 70s-early 80s were dedicated mostly to it. The way Gary Dranow does it is unlike any other. His hard rock swing brings a Sabbath like sound from the get go. Though it is only a three chord/string change as the riff structure, the energy is infectious. You enjoy the first 30 seconds with the riff, and Gary brings a Ronnie James Dio like vocal run. Take your time and listen to any song by him before this, and you will remain as impressed as we are with this transition. A Kashmir like transition in the verse leading to chorus is what we would have never expected. This is promising hard rock, coming at a time when everyone is going digital. He’s feeling the twang of the strings, and he’s making us feel it too. His songs like Mellow Drama and Golden Child are must listens. He is a permanent fixture in indie rock playlists that I would make for an evening hang. This would be a great single in 12 Strong (2018). There are several sequences that need this kind of energy, and it shows perfection in execution as well. Listen to Gary Dranow with this incredible single and follow him for more that is definitely to come!
Gary Dranow - Destiny Road - Re-Mix
Gary Dranow raises a glass for all the dreams and wishes that could have been in their latest release- Destiny Road - Re-Mix and there is more hope than letting go in this song. This band has always been a master of songwriting and they delivered as usual in this number. The trio have unique experiences and sensibilities that they bring to the table. They have truly created a delicious track for us to savor, relish and experience. Destiny Road - Re-Mix begins with a classical rock instrumental section that gives you a taste of what your ears are going to experience for the next 4 and a half minutes. This section has everything but they don’t give away too much either, making it the perfect intro. We hear the drums and the guitars right at the top and then we bleed into the vocals. The vocals on Destiny Road - Re-Mix is truly pristine and immaculate. This paired with the squeaky clean production of this song highlights the standard that is to be set for the indie music world. This track would be perfect in The Longest Yard. This is one of the many Adam Sandler films that has everything in it. You can imagine this track playing in the montage scenes when they are getting ready for the football showdown. This classic film obviously deserves the best and what is more classic than the best blues-rock band out there? This band is truly a special one they mix fire and purpose into every note they create. What are you waiting for? Click on the links attached above and follow Gary Dranow now!
Gary Dranow - Sandy Beaches
Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions showcase their versatility with the latest single, "Sandy Beaches," a track that seamlessly weaves elements of blues rock and alternative metal into a compelling musical tapestry. The song is a testament to the band's ability to transcend genre boundaries, delivering a sound that resonates with authenticity. "Sandy Beaches" opens with gritty guitars and pounding floor toms, capturing listeners' attention with a carefully crafted stereo field that immerses them in the band's sonic landscape. The track's tonality is driven by screaming hot preamp sections, adding a raw intensity that complements the bluesy undertones. The fusion of genres is executed masterfully, creating a unique listening experience that sets Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions apart in the indie music scene. The song's energetic vibe and powerful instrumentation evoke a cinematic quality, making it a perfect fit for action-packed movies. Imagine "Blood and Chrome," a gritty, adrenaline-fueled film set in a dystopian future. Or "Run or Die," a suspenseful thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. "Sandy Beaches" by Gary Dranow provides the ideal soundtrack for intense sequences, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions' recent album, "Destiny Road," was released on May 26, 2023, features the collaborative talent of Jerry Manftedi on bass, Jethro DeFries on drums, and Tommy Mars on keyboards. Having honed their craft through extensive gigging in Southern California, the band is ready to enchant audiences in and around Salt Lake City and Park City, UT, promising a musical journey that transcends traditional boundaries. In conclusion, with their genre-defying approach, Gary Dranow continues to leave an indelible mark on the contemporary indie music scene. His latest release Sandy Beaches is a worthy addition to any indie alternative playlist.
Gary Dranow - I'm a Man
The latest single by Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions, "I'm a Man," effortlessly blends blues and rock, capturing the essence of his genre-defying approach. The track opens with overdriven guitars that saturate the soundscape, creating an immersive sonic experience. The carefully crafted stereo field allows each instrument to shine, with a solid bass foundation, rhythmic drums, and textured keyboards. "I'm a Man" exudes a gritty and soulful vibe, reminiscent of classic blues rock. While the vivid dynamic range of the guitar work adds a contemporary edge. The mix strikes a perfect balance, allowing the vocals to cut through the instrumental richness and deliver the raw emotion synonymous with the powerful blues riffs. The latest studio effort by Gary Dranow finds a natural fit in the dark comedy genre, aligning with TV shows like "Fargo" and "Barry," where intense narratives and humor parallel the song's ironic and playful approach to the lyrical narrative. The song's gritty yet ecstatic undertones make it an ideal soundtrack for scenes demanding a dynamic musical backdrop. In the indie music scene, Gary Dranow stands out as an innovator, blending genres and defying conventions. His ability to create music that resonates personally is evident, with his own journey of coping with health issues adding depth to his compositions. Dranow's new line up for his album Never Give Up is Chris Zoupa on Guitar, Bass Guitar and vocals, Jason Jones on Drums and producing, and Caspar Aesthetic on lead vocals. In conclusion, "I'm a Man" is a testament to the artist's musical prowess, and his ability to create sonic tales of real experiences. His genre-defying approach and commitment to crafting emotionally charged music make Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions a notable presence in the global scene.
Gary Dranow-Jimi's Song
Gary Dranow has done scorched the Earth. That’s how many genres he has explored, without half-arsing his effort in any. He returns to rock, however, he calls it home. His latest single makes an inspiring story of music and love. This is Hendrix’s story, told by Gary with a lot of soul. This one is called Jimi’s Song. There has been no greater influence on rock than Jimi Hendrix, arguably. It is a juggernaut footprint the musician left in his relatively short musical career. His story with the guitar might have been one of the best you’ve heard. Gary Dranow makes it a tale that is absorbing, inspiring and beautiful. It is an energetic song that still has the rock swing to it all. There are references to his albums, songs and styles-all cleverly arranged for it to become one cohesive whole. It is vibrating with that same love for music that Gary Dranow must have found for rock when he was young. The scale changes and climb to the chorus is another shrewd reference to the legend’s music. Gary ensures that the heart of the song revolves around Jimi, someone who has left his mark on rock, just like Gary does with his music now. A teacher without any formal education, teaching all the manics of music with just his experiences. Gary Dranow has had one hell of a year in 2023, and this song promises 2024 to be gold. There are a lot of songs lined up, for sure, and you’re in for a treat. This song would be a perfect dedication to him in the 2015 movie, Jimi Hendrix: Electric Church. Listen to his song above and follow him for more!
Gary Dranow - Bedroom Mentor
The latest release by Gary Dranow, "Bedroom Mentor," takes listeners on a genre-bending journey that skillfully blends hard rock and alternative metal with Dranow's signature musicianship. The track's carefully crafted stereo field immerses the audience in a dynamic soundscape, where walls of distortion and double bass drum fills create a heavy atmosphere. The juxtaposition of quieter sections, adorned with acoustic guitar accents, showcases a masterful understanding of the track's dynamic range. Dranow's vocals soar through the mix with a powerful delivery, perfectly complementing the heartfelt lyrical narrative. The result is a song that not only engages the listener but leaves a lasting emotional impact. The use of a carefully crafted stereo field allows every element to find its place, ensuring that each instrument contributes to the overall sonic tapestry. Bedroom Mentor by Gary Dranow: A deviation from the usual blues rock This sonic powerhouse of a track finds its home within the indie music scene, demonstrating Dranow's ability to push boundaries and defy genre norms. The fusion of hard rock and alternative metal, coupled with the impeccable songwriting skillset of The Manic Emotions, sets "Bedroom Mentor" apart in a landscape that values innovation and authenticity. The intensity of the track suggests cinematic potential, envisioning "Bedroom Mentor" seamlessly fitting into an action-packed movie like John Wick or the gritty, offbeat world of a dark comedy like Trainspotting. Gary Dranow has not only delivered a standout piece within the indie music scene but also a potential soundtrack gem for the silver screen. "Bedroom Mentor" is a testament to Dranow's musical prowess and his ability to create a sonic experience that transcends traditional boundaries. In conclusion, Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions have delivered yet another worthy track for their diverse discography with their new release Bedroom Mentor.
Gary Dranow - Hadrian's Wall
Gary Dranow, the songwriter who found solace in music while battling bipolar disorder and the aftermath of a stroke, has unveiled his latest masterpiece, "Hadrian's Wall." This blues rock-inspired ballad seamlessly intertwines with a touch of mythology, resulting in a genre-defying collection that resonates with those navigating challenging journeys. The song opens with the steady marching beat on the snare that displays the vivid dynamic range of the kit, setting the tone for a musical journey that is both powerful and emotive. The warm and rich guitar overdrives add depth to the composition, creating an atmosphere that captivates the listener. The carefully crafted stereo field enhances the overall experience, allowing each instrument to shine independently while contributing to the cohesive whole. Gary Dranow and the Manic Emotions showcase their brilliance in songwriting, creating a sonic landscape that provides comfort to those facing adversity. "Hadrian's Wall" would find a perfect home in animated movies with mythological themes. It seamlessly complements the visual storytelling of films like "The Tale of Princess Kaguya" and "Kubo and the Two Strings," enhancing the narrative with its emotive soundscape. In the indie music scene, this track stands out as a testament to the band's ability to transcend genres and create a unique sonic identity. As for Gary Dranow, his journey from outdoor sports business success to music as a therapeutic outlet is evident in the depth and authenticity of his compositions. In addition, The Manic Emotions, now gearing up to enchant audiences in and around Salt Lake City and Park City, UT, continue to carve their niche in the music industry, offering a musical sanctuary for those walking difficult paths. Dranow's new line up for his new album Never Give Up is Chris Zoupa on Guitar, Bass Guitar and vocals, Jason Jones on Drums and producing, and the incomparable Caspar Aesthetic on lead vocals.