Casual Male - “Hondo Civic”
Photo by Kevin W Condon
From Brooklyn, New York, Casual Male has just released the anthemic alt-rock track, “Hondo Civic.”
“Hondo Civic” encapsulates the essence of classic pop-rock, overflowing with emotion, energy, and irresistible catchiness. The song could easily be a lost release from the late 1970s or 1980s, with tinges of REO Speedwagon and echoes of U2’s Joshua Tree era – just without the pretentious, mournful lamentations of Bono.
The song is built on the melodic foundation of a pulsing bass synth and atmospheric, introspective pads that swirl immersively. Electric and acoustic guitars are tenderly added, contributing shimmering, uplifting textural glory. The power though beautifully lies in the restraint of these layers as they are allowed to breezily float over the driving, punchy, no-frills drum groove.
Delightfully passionate and rich in emotion, the vocal expresses moods ranging from reflection and yearning to captivating, soaring vastness. The delivery draws on a wide range of tonal influences, from gospel and soul to atmospheric, anthemic rock’n’roll. Surrounded by rich harmonies, the performance is unbelievably slick and polished in all the right ways.
On the track, Casual Male adds: “It’s all about being young, and the world being ahead of you. You have this car that by all standards is a junker but you worship it. It represents freedom, and the idea that no one but you can really tell you what something is worth.”
“Hondo Civic” is an epic track that has exultant power. The track is taken from the self-titled debut album, Casual Male, out October 4th.