06/13/2002
Rise and Shine reviewed by Laura Turner in Kweevak.com Indie-Music Newsletter

Rise and Shine is the latest release from Transcendence. Ed Hale is the singer/songwriter of this band as well as the guitar and piano player. Ed is a prolific writer and has composed over eight hundred songs since age thirteen. He also reworks many of his tunes.

The Transcendence are strong musicians able to play a diversity of styles such as funk, hip-hop and electronica. Their music is a blend of many genres but can best be classified as modern alternative rock. They have an interest in international sounds from the Middle East, Brazil and West Africa. They subtly incorporate these influences into their own unique interpretations. Rise and Shine is a mix of progressive rock, world music and experimental sounds. Their songs are skillfully constructed with catchy hooks and flawless production. I found tracks one through three to be intriguing with vocals and music reminiscent of early David Bowie. “Mother” has biting, bitter lyrics, edgy instrumentation and expressive vocals.

Rise and Shine is aptly named as Transcendence shine brightly track after track on this eclectic mix of music. I love it, and you will too! The five-member band is currently touring the east coast including their home state city Miami, Florida.

Recommended Tracks: (1,2,3,7) [USA/FL 2002]

(Review by Laura Turner Lynch for Kweevak.com)