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Ric Zweig
3 singles from More Ric Zweig & Fresh Air
Review by Daniel C. Morrison
https://www.facebook.com/The-Fresh-Air-Band-947470885288899/
A Little Info
I get a request for a review for a former Prosecutor, Criminal Defense Attorney, and Circuit Court Judge in Miami, Florida and I’m like, “Hmm. Very interesting!” Ric Zweig left the music scene upon entering law school and now that he has retired it’s right back to the music. For the last 12 years Ric has recorded 5 albums of original music and is said to be, “one of the premier singer/songwriters in the South Florida area.” Although a recent move to New Orleans is new territory, they’re hoping to get a broader fan base. What a way to spend that retirement money!
Ric Zweig’s band name is “Fresh Air” which includes: Alex Mallet-Lead Guitar and Vocals,Ricky Risquez-Bass Guitar, and Miguel Cruz-Drums. They’re definitely worth mentioning!
There are a couple things here of interest to me. First, what was the music like from before his career in non-music and what does it sound like now? Secondly, has the time lapse outdated his music or refreshed it? If his band is a regular in the music scene and festival ring out in Florida, as well as on radio there, would I like it?
If you go to his website you can hear Stranger play immediately and if you download his EPK (Electronic Press Kit) you get more freebies. This is where a dozen or more songs are available to listen to which gives you a better spectrum of sounds. If you happen to be an instant fan he updates his blog nearly every Sunday so it’s worth being a part of if this hits you in the sweet spot! For this review I was emailed 3 singles from his upcoming album More Ric Zweig & Fresh Air. So, it’s time to get inner ear deep and see how this comes together.
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LET’S DIG IN!
Previous songs of Ric’s were definitely well written and had a likable flow. I was able to attain this from the free EPK. The first of the three singles I listened to that was sent to me, Stranger, was an absolute gem! It reminded me of a modern day Eagles/Pink Floyd but with totally different vocals. The raspy voice was definitely a nice fit to this soft paced song. I was moved by the peacefulness of the music and story. It’s definitely a nice touch to have a song stand out like classic rock songs with story, flow, and quality sounding vocals. I definitely added it to my rotation of listening musts!
Next, I listened to Rescue Me which had a nice funk, continuing the nod to classic styles, this time reminding me of Bee Gees. Again, I hear sensible lyrics reminding me of a classic time where life was not so complicated and confusing. Is this a true event Ric?
Here Comes the Rain Revisited is the third triumph sent to me. This contained the beauty of the previous two songs and cut my visit with Ric Zweig and the Fresh Air Band way too soon.
On one end of the shovel
I love the sound of Ric’s voice, the smooth classic rock and bit of funk that his band delivers and the lyrics. This is truly a nod to classic rock of the 70’s and possibly 60’s. I can totally imagine an immersive live sound taking one back to the easier-to-breathe times of our parents generation. Superb!
On the other end of the shovel
As much awesomeness as I get from these singles, overall this style of music isn’t really modern. It captures the classic rock/funk sound but doesn’t truly bring you into 2017. This isn’t a bad thing at all if you like good beats and rhythm, classic rock sound and easy to relax to music. If you were looking for a new sound or style of music, this won’t provide it for you. But who’s really looking for that?
I’m not looking for a “new sound” or style at all. I enjoy music that makes sense no matter the genre or time period. I like melodies, good sounding vocals, smart lyrics, and a mood that grabs me, as if there is passion behind it. I loved every one of these songs! The free ones on his site are similar in style and all hold up to the part of me that wants to funk, rock, and relax into literally great music. It’s for this reason I dig this album 9 out of 10 feet deep.
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One final note, this new album will only cost 5 bucks which every dollar will be donated to the American Cancer Society for each CD sold. How's that for rounding out a sweet band? Ric Zweig and "Fresh Air" indeed!
