The Ride

Angst, anger, dysfunction, hostility, cynicism — these are things that characterized many of the young alternative rock outfits that were playing the New York scene in the late '90s. But Inasense (later known as Soulfarm) was never about negativity, and the band's congenial neo-hippie outlook set it apart from other young Big Apple combos. More often than not, a feel-good vibe prevails on Inasense's second album, The Ride. Released in 1997, this CD contains a variety of live and studio material. Four of the songs ("Space," "Dollar," "Midnight," and "Rider") were recorded live at Crossroads in New York, while "Listen to You" is from an appearance at Berlin, Germany's House of Culture (Haus der Kulturen in German). But whether a particular song was recorded on stage or in the studio, The Ride is a respectable, highly melodic sophomore effort with strong California leanings. California pop/rock of the 1970s is a big influence on this album; however, Inasense never goes out of its way to emulate anyone from that era — in fact, the Middle Eastern elements that the New Yorkers bring to some of the songs sets them apart from any of their West Coast influences. The Ride falls short of remarkable, but even so, it is the best album that the band recorded when it was still calling itself Inasense.