CD Reviews
By Lara Hendrickson
Features Editor

EZRA THOMAS — “THE WEIGHT OF BEING”
At the height of this band’s first CD release, “Dogma and the Universe,” Ezra himself suffered a near fatal car crash. The group took two years off while its lead vocalist recovered and came back with its second album, “The Weight of Being.”

Composed of Ezra Vancil, vocalist, Aaron Thomas, drummer, Matt Talbert, guitar, Bart Sweaze, bassist and Curtis Lee, percussionist, the band takes on a pop/rock/slightly techno feel with some weighty lyrics. Their sound is highlighted by deep-seated drums and a conglomeration of different musical genres and mixes.

Ezra Thomas’ producer has worked with the like of Ani DiFranco, Oasis and Carole King. The band has shared the stage with artists of a wide variety, including Reveren Hortan Heat, Barry Manilow, David Garza and the Toadies.

The band’s eclectic mix of inspirations and shared performances makes this CD an interesting one.

INGRAM HILL — “JUNE’S PICTURE SHOW”
Ingram Hill came together in the summer of 2000 and consists of Justin Moore on vocals, Phil Bogard on guitar, Shea Sowell on bass and Matt Chambless on the drums. If the name sounds familiar, it is probably because the quartet has opened for Lisa Marie Presley, Jason Mraz, Michelle Branch and Vertical Horizon. The group also co-headlined “The Rubber Meets the Road” tour with the Clarks and Pseudopod.

Produced by Rick Beato (Flickerstick), the material exudes a low-key feel that is rather pleasant and sounds radio-friendly. The band’s lyrics are honest and plainspoken with high energy backbeats.

While the group plays mostly college and festival dates so as to keep a strong fanfare, it could certainly appeal to a variety of age groups. Though the band has emerged quietly, Ingram Hill has potential to make it big in the music industry.