Superhero

Personnel: Tony Palacios (guitar); John Elefante (keyboards); Ken Lewis (drums, percussion); Dan Needham (programming).
Audio Mixer: Tony Palacios.
Recording information: The Sound Kitchen, Cool Springs, TN.
Photographer: Michael Gomez .
Scarecrow & Tinmen displayed modest success with their first release. On their second disc entitled Superhero, they take their Midwest arena rock to the next level. Who better to produce a band named Scarecrow & Tinmen then former Kansas alumni John and Dino Elfante. The discs opener "Jesus Is God " is a funky foray into rock Oz. Guitarist Brad DeRosia plays like Extreme's Nuno Bettencourt, tasty funk that permeates. The cut has the same alternative feel as early Spin Doctors. "The Reason Why" is a poppy retro number with a sticky chorus. "God Is Good" is a street-smart rap backed with a distorted guitar and topped with a strapping chorus. "Groovy" is a straightforward incursion that presents a strong vocal melody and clear-cut lyrics: "Buried sin on the hill of Calvary, I think that it's so groovy." One of the discs shining moments comes courtesy of the cut "Crossroads." The band offers up a nice blend of organ and acoustic guitar that flavor the tune well. Vocalist Chris Padgett has uniqueness about his voice that is ideal for a mid-tempo strummer like this. If Scarecrow & Tinmen have any downfalls it would be a similarity of tempos within a few of the tunes. For the most part, though, Superhero is a disc you'll find uplifting without having to think too much. ~ Steven Losey