The Ruse, a LA alt-rock band in the mold of Matchbox 20 and George Huntley, have released their sophomore effort Light In Motion. The CD is polished and straightforward, with enough diversity to keep them from sounding like just another young band. Opening track "Everything Comes With A Price" has an Americana feel sounding a lot like later day Jayhawks. "All I've Done" is classic 8-th note driven rock reminiscent of Bowling For Soup without the cheesy lyrics.
Bassist Mark Stolze and drummer Jason Young interact nicely, the timing of bass runs fit nicely with the solid rhythm being laid down. Stolze's playing reminds me of Chris Wolstenhome. Songs like "Light You Up" are amazingly tight with Jim Bilus basically playing guitar fills while the bass drives the songs melody. "The Situation" and "Don't Let It Fade Away" tend to be the safe, radio friendly songs that are expected but lessen the value of Light In Motion.
As some one who loves all kinds of rock; progressive, metal, indie, folk, and alt-rock, The Ruse will get some play time in my house. They are tighter and more inspired than half the bands on the radio today. If you like the genre, then pick up a copy of Light In Motion. I would love to see this band discover more of an edge on their next CD with Bilus deciding to color outside the lines a little more.
Track Listing
1 Everything Comes with a Price 3:26
2 Swallow You 4:30
3 All I've Done 3:24
4 Devil in the Girl 3:24
5 Light You Up 2:52
6 The Situation 3:01
7 Goodbye 3:58
8 Alone 2:49
9 Don't Let If Fade Away 4:24
10 Hold Tight 4:15
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