The Single Life: Shadow of Jupiter Crosses the Bridge of Sighs

I think if I were starting a band right now, it would be Shadow of Jupiter. They’ve got everything I’d want in a band: a solid and friendly social media presence, top-shelf musicians, and really good songs. They’ve released a couple singles, are getting attention, and building anticipation for a full release.

Not a bad place to be for a new band. I mean, they seem to know what they’re doing. For example, if there were one thing I wish more bands would do, it would be to engage in a handful of forums and connect with the fans. Shadow of Jupiter takes it to the next level, though. They actively promote and encourage other bands. This kind of thing seems to work as far as building a community. I also love their name: no goats were harmed in the making of the band. Big sigh of relief!

Another thing I’d want to do is release Bridge of Sighs as a single. They’re not the first to cover this classic tune, and that’s not a bad thing. Robin Trower’s classic jam has legacy behind it, and these guys are brave and bold enough to throw themselves into the mix.

As an old, and getting older, fan of hard rock dating back to the 70’s, I appreciate the choice. I remember he got slagged a lot for “copying” Jimi Hendrix with his overall approach and tone. I think history shows the claim was a BS copout right out of the gate. Trower was always better than the press he got, and the fact that 50 years later he still has rabid fans tells you all you need to know.

It’s a brave and ballsy thing to release this on 4/20, and these guys have the goods to deliver. The vocals of John Piotrowski are perfectly presented as a counter-balance to the psychedelic wailing of the guitar, courtesy of Colin Peterson – Guitar. It’s one hell of a performance, heavier and better executed than Opeth’s take from the Watershed-era.

But my favorite part is when bassist Scott Brakebill gets a little impatient playing the disciplined, if a little suffocating, bass line. He gives a little flourish at about the 4:26 mark that makes me smile. It’s the kind of move I’d make, but maybe a tad clumsier than he pulls it off. Just enough to let us know he’s still breathing in the smokey haze of the hypnotic vibe of the piece.

The drumming of Adam Kazragys is perfect for the song, which means it’s unobtrusive. That’s just the nature of the piece: we’ll have to wait to hear what firepower he brings to the party.

Yeah, if I started a band, it would be Shadow of Jupiter. The only problem is: can they live up to (painfully) controlled and strategic releases? I don’t think they’ve reached peak anticipation with the general fans of Stoner/Doom, but a lot of my colleagues sure are beginning to talk.

One thing’s for sure: I gotta get them on my YouTube channel. I need their grooming advice- those are some seriously well-groomed beards!