Dark Spark Rays
Houston, TX | Established. Jan 01, 2008 | SELF
Music
Press
“The band act as a “musical co-op” where different musicians, often from varied musical backgrounds collaborate to “give us different sounds and ideas to work with”. “The aim was to put out well written music without classification where the group would be free to experiment with different sounds and genres and do what’s right for each individual song.” “I believe that being unique is a major key to developing a musical identity – How do you stand out in a sea of musicians and groups if you’re doing what every other act is doing?” This philosophy has created a vibrant sound in the group, with mixtures of classic, folky sounds mixing with more rocky or even classical styles.” - Born Music Online
“Adding acoustic and almost meandering folk to any indie rock outfit is a daunting task, yet this band does it with ease, and reminds me of a mix of The Smiths and solo Evan Dando.” - Free Press Houston
“DARK SPARK RAYS “Daytime Lullaby” There’s enough new Houston music being regularly released not to have to look back; but sometimes a good song doesn’t get to you until you get to it at a live show. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it for Dark Spark Rays’ “Daytime Lullaby.” Originally released four years ago, it was the thing I didn’t know I needed to listen to repeatedly until I caught the indie/art-rockers at April’s HomeGrown Music and Arts Festival. Replete with members who are easy on the eyes, the band has a strong European following and a growing one here at home. Past that first glance, though, you find they’re just as easy on the ears, with psyche-soothing songs that are atmospheric and romantic. The best of the bunch is this song, wherein vocalist James Lino channels Lou Reed for a plaintive contemplation on trying to hold tight to the falling sands of time.”
JESSE SENDEJAS JR. - Houston Press - Houston Press
“Dark Spark Rays took the stage, and left no room for anything else. This seven piece band is so good. They are well onto developing their own unique sound. Clearly this is a mature act who have masked all of the influences into a cohesive blend. The dynamic duo James Lino-Vocal/Rythm and Gabriella Campos-Backing Vocal/Synth make a sweet sound together. You'll be struck by how good they are. I have a feeling they have a load of material to share between them. For these guys, it's all about the music. They look good, they smell good, they don't jump around. I can see their sweet boy/girl act appealing to suburban masses, while they are just too good to be ignored by more serious music lovers. Go out and see these guys if you can.”
Freedom Star - RED PUBLICATION - Red Publication
“Love and relationships both brim over with ideas and perspectives to base songs around, and every artist, in any given genre, has a love song – whether it’s about having love or kicking that love to the curb. Dark Spark Rays don’t stray far from their peers in that respect (really, how could you?), but their blending of indie-pop and country-tinged melodies into simple songs are all heart, no fuss. The hush of the drums reverberates against the robust, yet gentle sound of frontman James Joe Lino’s vocals. -Jessi Rotti, Music Writter” - Blog Spot
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
Photos
Bio
Dark Spark Rays is a collaboration of artist and musicians whose goal is to bring a refreshing and unique style of music to the music scene. Members of the band have a broad range of influences and musical backgrounds. Together, the sound of many genres of music come together to form layers of groove ranging from British garage rock to folk, jazz, alternative and even country and western. Further complementing this unique sound is the vocal styling of singer James Lino, who's voice ties everything together with simple and sincere feeling that captures ones attention and draws them into his mind and soul.
Band Members
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