9ELECTRIC is a high-energy band out of Los Angeles, CA lead by Ron Underwood, a.k.a. Thunderwood. I was first introduced to this dynamic 4-man ensemble earlier this year when they opened for Lacuna Coil at The Chameleon Club in Lancaster, PA. Their music is an intricate mix of rock and electronica and they put on one hell of a show. Control, their EP that was released in 2014 was highlighted by songs “Time Bomb” and “Feel This”. Now, 9E has just released their debut full-length album, The Damaged Ones, and it’s definitely one that you’ll want to check out!
The Damaged Ones begins with its namesake track and it essentially introduces the album and those who are described in the songs to follow. The damaged ones are those who are hurt, angry, and essentially “the ones who can’t be saved.” The songs on the album remain true to the title and together they form a really cohesive collection of music that makes you want to get moving.
The third song on the album, “Naked”, initially comes across as a sexually provoking party song but upon further review it is also empowering. It encourages the listener to expose their “unclean” physical and emotional insecurities. The music itself is upbeat and makes one want to let loose.
“Beautiful” portrays a broken woman who appears happy and I think many women will be able to relate to this song. “Lies” depicts a couple damaged by dishonesty and deceit, “I play your game, you lose my mind / Every day / I see no change, I’m still betrayed.” Lastly, “Goodbye” tells a tale of a man who kills his lover to rid himself of the jealousy, pain, and yearning of his love.
There is then a change in the tone with “Filthy” and “Toxic Angel”. They have a catchy beat and are sung in a deep, seductive tone. As sung on “Filthy”, “Flesh on flesh, we’re on fire / No real love, just desire…/ Make me beg for more in your filthy world.”
Overall, The Damaged Ones is a fast-paced album that truly highlights the unique sound of 9ELECTRIC and the vocal ability of Thunderwood. If you have the opportunity to see them perform live I highly recommend it, for you may find the band members performing acrobatic stunts, hanging from the rafters, or walking across the crowd. Again, check out the album or see them live at a performance near you. 9ELECTRIC is now touring with Gemini Syndrome through early September.
For more information, go to 9electric.com.
Look for The Damaged Ones on iTunes, Google Play, or Amazon MP3.
