“Unintended Consequences” by Meat Raffle
The WNY music scene has some up-and-coming rockers joining the gang, and their first release is coming out next month! Buffalo-based prog-rock band Meat Raffle is stepping out on the scene with their debut EP, Unintended Consequences.
Don’t let the name put you off! I know I was skeptical of these guys at first, but after listening to their EP, I’m convinced that they’ve got the right kind of weird going on to fit into the Buffalo rock spot. This prog-rock quartet is dropping their EP on November 12, and in my opinion, it’s a must-listen.
Track Review
The title track, “Unintended Consequences,” introduces the listener to the retro-futurism and electro-rock that serves as the thematic basis for the EP. This track specifically includes references to the Cold War and criticism of societal machine and automation to offer foreshadowing for the story that is told across the rest of the EP. The blend of classical piano on top of harder rock reminds me of Electric Light Orchestra, which was a unique feeling that I was delighted to see in a modern context. Overall, this song is really fun to listen to and serves as a great opening to the story of this work.
Next, “No Choice (But to Fight) Pt I” traded the classic electronica and rock elements for chill, acoustic guitar vibes in an interesting twist. The song serves as a literal call to arms even with the calm indie vibes, which is ironic in that it’s not what you expect from a call to action song. Considering how many classic rock revolution songs there are that all use the same driving tempo and angry tone, I’m happy they chose to switch it up with this one. To top it all off, the drone at the end is a great transitional touch to lead into the next track.
“No Choice (But to Fight) Pt II” comes directly off the drone of the previous part, making a smooth transition into a completely different portion of this war-story. This is where the hard-hitting rock comes in to keep that classic revolutionary rock feel without playing into overdone ideas. It features cool, eerie chord structures, and the long instrumental leaves the listener in suspense. Then it comes back with the great keyboard and electric guitar sounds of previous tracks before trailing off into a drone to keep that futuristic feel. Finally, the fade into the soothing of the rain suggests an ending and a rebirth, and the war has been ended.
To end the EP, “After the War ” has echoing piano chords and the slowest tempo of the entire EP, giving the listener plenty of time to wonder “What did you get out of the war?”. The track serves as a reflection on war itself and the cost of victory. Even with all of that reflection, it still features a great guitar solo, but still has an overall reflective and harrowing tone.
Verdict
It’s no surprise that I love this EP. It didn’t take me long to pick apart just how intricate and full of meaning this work is, and that’s part of the beauty of it. I may not have gotten much of it on the first listen, but once I gave it more of my time and attention, all the little pieces added up together to create an incredible story-telling experience.
Unintended Consequences details the progression of war, from the sparks of revolution to the bitter end, including, not shockingly, the unintended consequences of revolutionary brutality. While I listened, I found myself reminded of other famous prog-rock albums that reflect on war. Considering the influences of 80s rock and the references to the Cold War, it seems like Meat Raffle knows their roots, which is very admirable, especially for a new band.
After hearing their EP, I understand the band’s name and vibe completely, which is exactly what a debut release should do. The fact that they were able to tell such a great story on top of all of that is what makes me believe that these guys have serious potential.
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the release of Unintended Consequences by Meat Raffle, out on all major streaming platforms on November 12, 2021!
