Band’s first EP brings some sunshine to Tree City

Photo by Daniel Doherty | Daily Kent Stater

Credit: Ron Soltys

Tropidelic’s self-proclaimed mission is simple: Bring the sunshine to the gray Ohio skyline.

Mission accomplished.

The band’s Tree City Exodus EP is a more refined version of their high-energy, funky reggae-rock-rap. It is a quick, sunny listen that is sure to widen its fan base.

Tropidelic is Kent’s own. Any fan of Sublime-esque music with a hip-hop flair should be proud.

The fact that the band spent six months recording the album is apparent. When I saw the band at their favorite venue, the Robin Hood, I danced. And danced. And danced. I couldn’t understand the lyrics, nor pick apart the individual instruments; but I knew it was good, happy music. With this album, I can dance and respect the music more.

They still have some progression to make before completely matching their 311, Sublime, Atmosphere and Red Hot Chili Peppers comparisons.

Still, Tropidelic is a local band that one can see going places. Perhaps to the sandy beaches that their music speaks of?

The EP opens with a 30-second intro with guitar and drums catching the beat the background. The music slowly picks up and blends in with the second track, “Crest of the Wave,” that has energetic drums and a 311-sounding guitaring of Chevontez.

The vocalist’s, Roads, voice is gruff as he sings of catching a ride on a wave.

Guzba’s bass is bouncy as “Aquafire” begins. The bounciness continues, and it is almost impossible to not bob your head or tap your foot to the upbeat beat. Interesting qualities of the song, like turn-tables, squealing guitar and a more muted singing, make it one of the best tracks on the EP.

After the feel-good energy pumps, they throw a beautiful stringing at the beginning of the fourth track, “War Cry.” Of course (this is Tropidelic we are speaking of), the song picks up with some quick rapping. The song is a social critique and adds depth to the sunny album.

The fifth track, “South Water Dub,” is closest to the ska-esque music they are famous for. Tropidelic really nailed this song. In its simpleness, all the instruments blend together into a perfectly happy beach song. The vocals are not as hoarse as the other tracks. Even though “Aquafire” is the single, much potential is wrapped into this four-minute song.

The longest track, “Constant Light Tunnel,” starts off slow and pretty. It speaks of stars being scattered, anger getting the best of a person and letting the past be the past.

Listening to Tree City Exodus EP almost seems inappropriate in Ohio, a land of no surf boards. But I guess that’s why Tropidelic is Tropidelic: to bring some sunshine to Kent. Lucky us.

Contact all reporter Brenna McNamara at [email protected].