The Greatest of These release 2nd album: Zeroth Law

For the average person outside Kentucky, there is not much expectation of music outside the genres of bluegrass and country. This is a typical misnomer, much as the absence of shoes and the indulgence of a certain bird that is fried. The truth is: Kentucky has some great talent in many genres, though most go undiscovered or relatively unknown. One of these great talents that I discovered was The Greatest of These. Tagged as an indie/alternative rock band from Central Kentucky, they have been on the scene for several years. The band consists of: Todd Melton – vocals, rhythm guitar, Trent Garrison – drums, Steve Jones, lead guitar, and Dustin Tennill on bass.

TGOT’s most recent work comes on their second studio album, Zeroth Law. The album was recorded at The Hollow Studios in Clover Bottom, KY where Vince West produced and Kevin Johnson mastered. Upon spinning the disc, you can immediately pick up on how this band has chemistry together. The tightness of the band shows, giving you a sense that they have honed their sound into a comfort zone, with some unexpected twists and turns.

Artwork is not usually a priority for smaller, local bands. However, the album and disc art is amazingly unique, thanks to Adam Rose for the concept artwork and drawing. The theme of the album focuses on songs about relationships with people, things and ideas that once held a great attraction. Todd Melton says, “It’s about looking for love in all the wrong species and how your emotions and attractions can lead you to some very strange and terrible and wonderful places”. One thing is for sure: you will want to tap your feet or get on the dance floor with many of these tracks.

Notable tracks on Zeroth Law:

Dead In Your Aim – Unexpected turn from lullaby to gritty upbeat shake your tail feather groove

Penny – Probably my favorite, love the intro, rhythm guitar carries a catchy riff to complement the smooth vocal runs and harmonizing. Has a feel of a softer System of a Down

Change Your Head – light, easy going tune with well structured lyrics that tell a believable story

Fallout – the vocals on this track remind me a lot of Chris Cornell. If you listen closely, you can pick up a piece of Funkadelic’s Maggot Brain in the arpeggios.

Tell You Lies – with the harmonica/guitar intro, it gives you a feel that is different than the rest of the album

You will have a few chances to catch TGOT in Central KY and be on the lookout for upcoming tours dates in the eastern U.S. at: http://www.tgotband.com

4/15/11 and 4/16/11 – Madison Garden – Richmond, KY (w/ The Sooners on 4/15)

5/13/11 – Lynagh’s – Lexington, KY (w/ Ash Wednesday)

5/19/11 – Cosmic Charlies – Lexington, KY (w/Atomic Solace and Several Hundred People)

5/21/11 – Underdog’s – Lexington, KY (w/RedShadeBlue)

(Photo credits by Amber Melton)