Avarice & Absolution

Although passed off as merely a "Pearl Jam clone" when they first hit the scene, Stone Temple Pilots proved to be quite an influence on mainstream rock radio circa the early 21st century. Countless subsequent bands have attempted to replicate Scott Weiland's part-David Bowie, part-Robin Zander vocals and Robert DeLeo's Jimmy Page-esque guitar riffs. One such band is Revery. Almost immediately after putting on their debut full-length, Avarice and Absolution, you can't help but notice the similarities between STP and this Virginia-based quintet. Singer Jason Martinez certainly has his Weiland-isms down pat, especially on "Sugar Star," in which he utilizes one of his idol's trademarks — singing through what appears to be a megaphone (or walkie-talkie). In fact, Revery's song titles even sound like they are straight from Tiny Music...Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop — "Sugar Star," "Popstar Wedding," etc. That said, if mainstream rock (mega-loaded with hooks) is your cup of tea, then Avarice and Absolution would sound splendid blaring from your car's sound system. And if Stone Temple Pilots ever reunite and need an opening band, here is one that would certainly go over well with their fans.