Esso

For this brief moment here…I know a few things you might not. And we’ll get to that, I promise I’ll fill you in soon enough…I’m just saying don’t let this pretty piano introduction of “Significant Other” fool you too much as Esso’s album Everything You Ever Wanted begins. Make no mistake – I’ve crossed paths here on these pages of ours a few times with the dude that got this band together before, and if I’ve learned anything about him, the energy, fun, and excitement is coming just around the corner. So take “Significant Other” as an opportunity to enjoy a lil’ serenity before things really kick into gear! Like I said, it’s a pretty way to start the record – I’m just also saying that I’m too grey in the face to assume that what we’re hearing would be all we’re gonna hear, you know what I mean? Brace yourselves, this is gonna get wild folks, I promise. I try not to ever set expectations too high, but I bet this will be killer!

Alright…while it’s true I’ve got the advantage of having been able to listen and write with the benefits of hindsight in any of these reviews you’re reading here – it ain’t like I wasn’t still right about everything I was saying in the intro. “Starting Over” gets the party started with a fiery burst of Pop/Rock energy, and just as predicted, the fun comes roaring out of your speakers immediately. It’s very much got the Weezer vibe to it, but that’s an influence that’s readily confessed and embraced by Esso’s main songwriter – none other than Jared Mancuso – a man we’ve come to know is synonymous with quality musicianship and stellar songwriting throughout the years. From what I understand, he’s dropped the solo moniker so that it ain’t so bloody awkward when he’s trying to introduce his band live from the stage. #Respect – that’s a solid decision. Esso it is! To be truthful, names and all that stuff have become about the most arbitrary and extraneous ingredient to the diet I’m on…as in, you can honestly call yourself whatever you like if you’re gonna sound as good as Esso does on “Starting Over!” I’m here for the music, man – and I am LOVING the fact that Esso sounds so willing to supply right from the start. Vocals are perfect, the music is crisp, the songwriting is spot-on, and the execution is truly staggering!

Full disclosure – I’ve purchased quite a bit of Mancuso’s music over the years from his page at Bandcamp, so you’re welcome to take anything I say with a grain of salt if you like. I’m a savage fan of the way this guy makes his music, but make no mistake y’all – I never lose sight of remaining objective. Like, when I heard “Only Wanted Your Love,” on my first listen through it, I wasn’t quite convinced that the verses were going to hold up strong enough…at least on that initial spin. Then I ended up where you’ll all end up too, in the chorus, and I’m like…THIS is what I’m tuning in for, you feel me? Hearing Jared scale up the melody of “Only Wanted Your Love” in the hooks of this cut is straight up DIVINE y’all – that’s right, I SAID IT. So…sure…I think I probably still have a bit more of a mixed reaction to the verses, but as I’ve told ya a million times on these pages of ours, one moment can completely make a song if you can nail it right. I’ve also pointed out that sometimes we need something a bit more on the typical side of sound in order to provide the kind of contrast required to make something else stand out for being as extraordinary as it is. The chorus of “Only Wanted Your Love” IS that addictive & irresistible moment you’re hoping to find at the heart of a song, and it’ll remain one of Esso’s most impressive parts in any of the cuts you’ll hear on Everything You Ever Wanted as it continues to cycle through its set-list.

What I can tell ya, from a listener’s perspective, is that you can hear the sound of Mancuso’s songwriting starting to mature even further at this stage of his career, and arguably strengthen. When I listen to a track like “The Good Days,” it’s like hearing the hybrid stage between the guy we’ve known and loved, that provides a bridge to his future ahead. Much like Weezer or Fountains Of Wayne in the sense that he’s always been able to incorporate that 50s/60s nostalgic vibe into the hooks of his music & vocals, “The Good Days” saves that element mainly for the chorus, while providing us with a more substantial glimpse into the maturing sound of his songwriting, almost more akin to what you’d find in one of the more evocative cuts from something like Jimmy Eat World in the verses. All-in-all, what you’ll always find in Mancuso’s music, which remains to be true here in Esso, is an astounding level of professionalism and quality at the heart of it all. From the clever placement of the backing vocals/harmonies, to the grip that the music and main hooks will have on you at the peaks of its intensity, “The Good Days” speaks pure volumes on how far he’s come to be where he is today, and how much effort he puts into his craft.

Being ‘the greatest’ at or of anything is damn tough y’all! Apt case in-point, when Weezer wrote “The Greatest Man That Ever Lived,” that idea fell fairly short of its boastful title…and…hmm…I suppose what I’d say is that I’m probably more of a fan of the three cuts prior to “The Greatest Song You Never Heard” on this shiny new record here too. It IS important to note that these songs are both somewhat written in jest to begin with, so yeah…don’t go taking anything too literally title-wise, listen to the actual words and the substance of the content – that’s where the real meat of these themes can be chewed upon. I freakin’ LOVE the guitar solo on “The Greatest Song You Never Heard,” I both dig and agree with a lot of the points that Jared’s making in the lyricism, and I’d also be the first to tell ya that when it comes to this dude’s execution, he always gives his material a chance at landing solidly in the court of public opinion. If you felt like “The Greatest Song You Never Heard” was indeed, “The Greatest Song You Never Heard” after you finally got your ears on it, I’d give ya a high-five – there’s no reason at all that this cut couldn’t end up being your favorite, because Esso is pretty much as ridiculously consistent as a band could ever hope to be. Great finale to this tune as well – “don’t try to be profound,” as Mancuso will tell ya in the lyrics of “The Greatest Song You Never Heard” – just serve up that “shiny & bright” stuff everyone loves!

Well then Esso, why not just get straight up ANTHEMIC then, right? There are multiple reasons as to why a song like “I Don’t Feel Good” was released as an advance single, with the majority of those reasons being the fact this song drips with extremely universal energy and sound combined. You get one of Jared’s best vocal performances on Everything You Ever Wanted, particularly in the chorus where the demands on his voice are actually at their highest. But yeah…whether it’s the verses, or the chorus, you’ll find tangible hooks in abundance all throughout this song, and a technicolor gloss to this track that can’t help but sparkle & shine. In addition to all that great stuff, Mancuso wisely enlisted his real-life girlfriend Aliya Rose to provide another dimension from the microphone for “I Don’t Feel Good,” and the verdict is in y’all – she’s fantastic! If anything, it ends up making us quickly crave another collaboration between these two, because THIS absolutely works brilliantly – “I Don’t Feel Good” is undeniably one of the album’s best, to the point where I’d honestly be shocked if anyone felt any differently about it. I love how Mancuso’s vocals came out, I love that Rose got more than just a backing role and gets the opportunity to take a lead moment of her own on “I Don’t Feel Good” too – and above all, considering that this IS in fact, a love-song…I mean…c’mon…it’ll melt your heart just listening to these two together. It absolutely helps that “I Don’t Feel Good” is an extraordinarily well-written tune to begin with, but yeah, the fact that it’s being sung in tandem by two awesome people that are in love, gives it even more credence. It’s not only a great freakin’ song, but feels entirely grounded & real despite its dreamy vibes.

What’d I tell ya from the very get-go in this review? It was just a matter of time before this dude was gonna turn up the heat & the volume on his amplifiers to melt your freakin’ speakers – and here we are, with “I Know Just What You Want.” He does indeed, seem to have a psychic-level read on what it is we the people are looking for in the music he creates…but more importantly, he’s so damn willing to supply that he deserves a genuine THANK YOU from longtime fans like me! Alright…enough MUSH – he already knows I love him. “I Know Just What You Want” is pretty much the Esso answer to the question of what would a “Song 2” style of tune sound like through the Mancuso approach? This would be that! Add in a touch of the classic throwback vibes he loves to work with in his melodies…a little bit of “Wipeout” style drumming goin’ on…and voila, you’ve got “I Know Just What You Want,” which will happily provide ya with that extreme dose of energetic enthusiasm you wanna hear in a great Rock record; this track is fun!

Hmm… “Sometimes I wonder about the things that I’m missing” and the things that artists hear in their material that we don’t always as listeners on the other side of the speakers. Let me be clear – even if Jared’s come up with a tune that I might not dig quite as much as the rest, like “Life Left For The Taking,” I’d still willingly listen to his stuff at half-strength than the majority of what’s out there giving it their best shot, you know what I mean? “Life Left For The Taking” is still a GOOD song, that much I’m 100% sure of. Is it a great one? Does it measure up to the rest of the material on the record? That could possibly be more up for debate. I’ll fully admit, listening to Esso punch into the transition of this song from its humble beginning to the lively electrified sound to follow is something else to experience, and quite likely the most significant highlight in this particular song. Production-wise, I wouldn’t say the ball gets dropped here, but chances are you’ll notice the amount of air in “Life Left For The Taking” as it begins – which is a fairly preventable thing…which makes you kind of have to wonder if it’s been left in by choice. It disappears entirely once this track plugs in and starts to rock, but you’ll notice it come back as it ends too. Ultimately, it doesn’t affect my enjoyment of “Life Left For The Taking” – it’s nothing too severe. I don’t know if I loved the pairing of the lighter-side of Jared’s vocals with the depth of the chords in the music…I feel like the contrast might have been a bit too much to feel like sounds that should coexist, but that’s more of a personal taste thing. Don’t get me wrong, I ain’t hating on this cut, it’s just not my #1 favorite from the set is all. With so many great tracks to choose from, am I to blame for that, or Esso!?!

I dig tracks like “Beverly” that attempt to draw influences from places you wouldn’t expect. You gotta look at things from the perspective of a music critic, where eventually life gets boiled down to the fact that most folks out there write about three topics in total and not a hell of a lot more. Word on the street is that Esso created “Beverly” from the perspective of the character of Ben singing to “Beverly” in Stephen King’s IT – and c’mon y’all – how rad is that? Not only is it rare to hear a love song inspired by a horror story, but the hooks in this cut are straight up charming as they can possibly get – “Beverly, can’t you see, the love that burns for you will keep us warm?” Cue the awwwwws! For real – I really dig what Mancuso has written here, and I think that it’s a real testament to how well things can work out when we find inspiration in the world around us, wherever we might find it, as opposed to simply writing another track based on what we’d consider to be safer, know what I mean? It’s still signature Mancuso, or Esso, or Green album-era Weezer…you get the point…it’s the music you love without a doubt, but the real effect of reaching for an outside influence ends up giving this track a refreshing spin on its meaning. That translates directly to our own level of interest in what we’re hearing, and clearly becomes a positive overall – songwriter’s out there could learn several lessons from Mancuso on how to do it right. The sincerity you’ll find in this track is truly genuine, which is pretty remarkable when you consider that the inspiration comes from a fictional source – that should tell ya how damn good Jared is on this track.

It’s funny…you can’t help but notice certain things with your eyes as you’re listening sometimes. Like, I was listening to the quaint sounds of “About The How,” and then I looked up at the wav file in front of me from the page at Soundcloud I was listening on, and could see the very end of this track was like, twice the size as the rest. Visually, that implies some serious fireworks or some complete chaos – but either way, it’s the kind of thing that caught my eye and got me curious as to what might come. When you hear “About The How” you’ll get what I mean – you spend like, what, something like nearly three minutes in one of Esso’s most humble & low-key moments…and it’s to the point where you start to wonder if your eyes are deceiving you! The song is still less than 3:30 in total, so you seriously begin to question whether or not it actually needs to do anything else other than what it’s already been doing, you feel me? I know I would have enjoyed “About The How” if it had stayed in the same gear it was in – I wouldn’t have complained. I might not have completely ranted and raved about it, but I wouldn’t be complaining either – I like what I hear, it’s a good song. I don’t know that I’m gonna be the guy to argue that the final thirty seconds or so takes it from good to great necessarily, but I really did end up liking the audibly unexpected switch in direction, and felt like Esso did a remarkable job of firing up the finale.

“This Is Only The Beginning” is intentionally placed at the end to add that extra layer of irony for ya, right before the experience with Everything You Ever Wanted wraps up. I think we can probably debate a little about whether or not this last track really pushes the record any further forward, or does anything too differently than the material we’ve already heard from Esso on this album…BUT…I mean, hey – more of a good thing is exactly that, ain’t it? Again, you’re not gonna find me complaining – I’ve loved this entire set, right up to and including “This Is Only The Beginning” – so it’s all gravy to me. Mancuso played it the right way by keeping the set tight to eleven tracks…tunes as catchy as these are end up practically daring you to wear them out as quickly as you can, and it is a genre that can take on a lot of wear & tear as the years go on. Regardless, if you’re a fan of the sound, you’ll still go back to the records that have it time and time again, but chances are you’ll start seeking out specific tracks for specific moods or playlists you’re making. You end up knowing where your favorites are, or where the right song is for the right moment you’re in, and that’s just kind of the nature of the game. It’d be the same for any Weezer album, so the same logic kinda holds true here too in a way. Still, I think that Esso has shown the growing depth, maturity, and versatility in Mancuso’s songwriting by revealing a more noticeably diverse set this time around…there’s ups, there’s downs, there are peaks and valleys, and it’s every bit the ride that I believe he’s intended to be. What I can tell you that Everything You Ever Wanted is for a certainty, is another quality entry into his legacy as an artist, and one riotously good time from the start to the end…no matter what name you find Jared Mancuso making music under, believe me when I tell ya, he makes everything worth listening to. - SleepingBagStudios

The most intriguing songs are often the most transparent songs. When an artist is willing to open up about their own struggles and successes in their songwriting, a kind of magic happens. The relatability bleeds through to the listener and a musical bond is created. Our friend Jared Macuso and his new band Esso seem to have done just that.

The singer, songwriter, and guitarist has been making music for quite a while now. His style has grown and shifted over the years but the energy and talent has always remained. Now as Esso, the fresh sound pays homage to alt-rock 90’s icons such as Weezer, Pixies, Smashing Pumpkins, and more. The earworm melodies and raw energy come right at you.

Esso truly leans into the nostalgia of not only the music that influenced him but also the memories of growing up during that time and the life lessons that shaped him. The result is the new record Everything You Ever Wanted. The 11-track album is set for release on May 24th but Indie Band Guru got a sneak peek, and the excitement is warranted.

The fittingly titled “Starting Over” gets the album rolling. The grinding guitars provide the dark energy as Jared Mancuso’s vocals are delivered in a contrasting way to draw attention. Definitely some Weezer vibes on this one. We go in a different direction with the opening of “The Good Days”and its minimalistic voice and guitar flow. By the 1 minute mark the energy kicks up with the full band joining. An emotional vocal remembering the past lets us into the world of Esso.

On the lead single “I Don’t Feel Good,” Aliya Rose lends her vocals to flesh out the sound. The big screaming chorus will sink deep into your head. Be surprised if you are not singing along by the third time it hits. A fun and bouncy song that hits all the right notes. That energy continues on “I Know Just What You Want” with a more punk feel. The way that Esso combines multiple styles within one song is impressive. We all get what we want in one little package.

Inspiration comes from Stephen King’s ‘IT’ on “Beverly.” Esso acts as Ben singing to Beverly sharing that yearning that was hidden throughout much of the flick. The storytelling of Esso is on point. Some additional emotion is shared on “About The How.” A track that leans into the mellow acoustic vibe and Mancuso’s unique vocal.
The album closes with more raw energy on “This Is Only The Beginning.” The catchiness is tough to ignore through cool guitar sounds and a rhythm section that pushes forward with power. The fun rock of the 90’s is alive and well. - Indie Band Guru

Esso’s debut album, “Everything You Ever Wanted,” has just hit the scene, bringing a refreshing wave of alternative rock that’s impossible to ignore. This 11-track album is a vibrant homage to the 90s and early 2000s, filled with energetic performances, impressive musicianship, and heartfelt songwriting.

Jared Mancuso, the man behind this band, has put all his heart into this project. His name is synonymous with a riff-heavy rock style but with Esso he shows off his prowess to channel the spirit of classic bands like Weezer, Pixies and Smashing Pumpkins while still keeping his touch. This album isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s a revitalization of the alt-rock genre with a modern edge.

From the moment you hit play, the album’s energy is palpable. The guitars and drums are dynamic and compelling, setting the tone for a journey through a variety of emotions and sounds. Each track is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, whether it’s the captivating vocal melodies, the powerful basslines, or the acoustic song that adds a layer of intimacy to the mix.

“Everything You Ever Wanted” offers something for every rock enthusiast. There are emotional ballads, high-energy anthems, and thoughtful lyrics that stay with you long after the music stops. It’s an album that invites you to relive the raw energy of the 90s while appreciating the contemporary twists that make it fresh and exciting.

This album is a must-have listen for any fan of alternative rock and deserves a place on the top of your playlist. The debut of Esso is not just another set of songs; it is a statement from an artist who is bound to leave a mark on the global music scene. So turn up the volume and let “Everything You Ever Wanted” take you back in time to when you first fell in love with rock music. - Bored City

Jared Mancuso had a name problem. Releasing previous material under his own name, he found this to be problematic when announcing his band during live shows; it didn’t quite roll off the tongue, or properly capture his musical mystique. During a conversation with friends regarding “significant others,” Jared recommended a more palatable acronym: “S.O.” Although the new label didn’t stick, there was something compelling about the phonetic pronunciation (and “S.O.”, coincidentally, were the last two letters in “Mancuso”). So, as if by fate, the phonetic “Esso” became the new name for Jared Mancuso’s latest, and forthcoming, musical endeavors.

Case in point: the approaching, highly anticipated album, Everything You Ever Wanted. Releasing May 24th, this particular album, along with a name change, begets a change in style. Feeling quite nostalgic, Jared musically articulated past feelings, struggles, relationships and experiences. And while revisiting his past, he embraced the music he grew up with; the music that provided initial inspiration, setting a course for perpetual music creation. And so, leaning on old favorites like Weezer, Smashing Pumpkins, Everclear, and other groups of their time and ilk, he gifted the world Everything You Ever Wanted. Ready to dig in for another expression of that dependable Mancuso magic? Excellent. Let’s hit the highlights.

What we’re digging….

The album kicks off with “Significant Other,” a prologue played on what sounds like an upright, “old-timey” piano; something performed in less boisterous saloon settings. It creates an emotional entrance, and prepares one for future travels throughout Jared’s musical musings.

“Starting Over,” with its Weezer-like tough chords and intermittent feedback breaks, absolutely harnesses the nostalgic sounds Mancuso seeks to address. But there’s a more potent energy here; the chugging verse, and its slightly playful leanings in the chorus, are much like his revisited influences…but turned up to 11 on the often overlooked “emotional urgency” knob. Powerful beginner, and I’m inclined, strongly, to keep listening.

“Only Wanted Your Love” features playfulness in the initial chords, but a dark chugging angles lower, underlining the endeavor’s seriousness. And the chorus? It’s uplifting; it enlists falsettos; it’s a reaching out from the bleak to the promised better. Incredible number ending in a slowly fading and fuzzy hum. This may be my favorite track…

“The Greatest Song You Never Heard” is slightly comedic; it’s a rapid-fire barrage of rhythmic lyrics and perhaps some poking fun at a musician’s aspirations. It features a chorus that’s almost cheered while it expresses a bit of artistic frustration.

“I Don’t Feel Good (Featuring Aliya Rose)” features that early post-punk beat regularly wielded by Everclear. And entering with an almost post-rock attack of dense guitar chords, it rests on its longing, briefly acapella verse. The chorus? It’s a crying out of initial octaves, and then harmonies. It’s powerful; it’s a proclamation; it’s a demonstration of one’s shortcomings when inevitably alone. And Aliya’s octave-higher support really lends a feminine element, like the longing is understood and equally protested by all parties involved.

“Life Left for the Taking” takes a breath, and begins with quiet acoustic guitar. And when the electric guitar kicks in, you know feelings are back where they belong – tattooed directly on one’s sleeve. With accompanying “Aaahs” in the chorus, this gentle tune, although punctuated by an aggressive handful of bars, comes back to the quiet from which it came; to the line of introspection that may induce another aggressive break.

“About the How” starts with gentle strumming, and a vulnerable utilization of Mancuso’s voice. It’s put upon, hurting, fragile, but trepidatiously optimistic. Possibly my second-favorite track, it appears purposely devoid of aggressive guitars …until the 2:58 mark, where a spike of anger, as dirty electric guitars, quickly slams open the door, overturning the furniture but dispersing as quickly as it came.

Album finale “This Is Only the Beginning” doesn’t hesitate; it just kicks right in with upbeat percussion, thick and drilling electric guitar, and 1950s-1960s, Weezer-inspired sensibilities. There are some great starts and stops here; some breaks to catch a breath as this particular anthem, powered by positivity, continues to cheer itself on to a rather promising future.

But is it good?

If you like the bands Jared leans on, but think they’re lacking a certain degree of urgency, Everything You Ever Wanted will give you EXACTLY what they lack. Jared doesn’t play half-inspired slacker rock that may be considered an afterthought; he fully commits to, with great feeling, each and every song, and this energy, this passion, propels his music to something positively outstanding. The songwriting is solid, the playing tight, and the production/recording tonally pristine. Seriously, this album, in my opinion, surpasses his inspirational contemporaries, and I find myself, as a new fan, more moved by his music than those that were held aloft as great. HIGHLY recommended, folks. - The Ark of Music

Hailing from Philadelphia, PA comes alt rock connoisseur Jared Mancuso.

Originally from Bucks County, PA, Mancuso has been around the block when it comes to performing. In college he met Jared Bardugone, the two formed Strike of the Heart and later The Jared Project. After a whirlwind of albums and tours, the two went their separate ways and Mancuso was left with the drive to begin a solo venture.

Beginning in 2015, Mancuso released his freshman album, A Very Pleasant Person. He would later release his sophomore album Superdope. These albums lead to an invite to the Launch Music Conference located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Set for release late summer 2018, Mancuso’s third album Hype! is sexy, slick and somehow infectious.

The first track “Splendor” has a Queen meets the Red Hot Chilli Peppers vibe. It opens with a classic rock beat and guitar with garageband gritty vocals. With cut throat verses and a pop punk like chorus, this song is a whirlwind of genres.

“Extraordinary” swings and bops from the opening chords. With a 70s classic rock undertone, this track picks up with the bridge and swirls into a chorus that cannot be matched. With catchy lyrics and an even catchier beat, this song does not disappoint.

The title track “Hype!” is sprinkled with flecks of Beach Boys surfer music, this track is a head bobbing, toe tapping jam. With fast lyrics and a smooth chorus, “Hype!” certainly lives up to its name.

“Play False Blues” builds with every chord. With a slower knee jerk start, the chorus hits and all hell breaks loose. Blending blues and rock, this track is a cocktail of the best of what Mancuso has to offer vocally and musically.

Closing track “Make It Right” is a pop punk anthem. With fast beats and tricky chords and Beastie Boys rock rap, this song keeps the energy flowing to the last word. This track acts as a perfect bow tie on a polished album.

Jared Mancuso is a one of a kind artist. Blending all genres and the sounds of artists we all know and love, he creates a sound that cannot be matched. In artistry and musicality, Mancuso had taken the bar and set it on fire. - Indie Band Guru

Word on the street from all my peers out there is that Jared Mancuso seems to be single-handedly restoring Rock’N’Roll back to its esteemed glory. Seriously…these are some worthy pulled quotes if I’ve ever seen’em in a bio! Given that I almost never fully agree with anything they’ve ever had to say (or good lord, how they tend to say it) – I figure it should be pretty interesting to see what Jared’s new record is like. So far we’re untainted by outside opinions on this album Hype!…let’s see if it all lives up to the massive expectations set by my fellow writers out there that set the world of Rock upon Jared’s shoulders…

It’s not that they don’t ever get it right mind you…it’s just freakin’ rare. That being said, I might have to admit, this time, they might not be too far off the mark at all – Jared’s got an extraordinary feel for music that leads him to wild victory after victory on Hype!. Like, right off the drop, the storming stomp of “Splendor” works in a gorgeous 50’s/60’s vibe with a 70’s feel that’s built to be relevant for the right here & now of what’s happening again in modern Rock. Essentially, you can hear the influence of the first two artists listed on his social media, Jack White and Buddy Holly – somewhere in the middle of those two legends, a dude like Jared Mancuso exists and thrives; pop inclinations with bold Rock tendencies that lead him to extraordinarily exceptional results and truly unique combinations in sound. From track to track, you’ll hear how both the classics of Rock and the modern-day heroes have played a role in shaping the Mancuso sound…he’ll flip between which of those influences you’ll likely notice more on any given track, but “Splendor” is one of those cuts that comes out strongly showing the remarkable balance between these time-periods and ability to incorporate a history’s worth of sound into his style. “Splendor” comes out like a combination of Strawberry Alarm Clock meeting The White Stripes – and I’d imagine for many of you out there, that’s a tantalizing description. It’s a justified one – the vibe has a wicked groove, resounding confidence, stunning execution, and wild, enthusiastic hooks that jump right out in the chorus through the vocals while the surrounding instrumentation in the entire song is bound to grab your attention for its complex intricacies and clever musicianship. For a rock record called Hype! – I gotta hand it to this man…he instantly lives up to the Hype! I’ve read about his past music and has clearly come out sounding inspired to exceed your expectations this time around on his new record. The breakdown & incredible drums that fuel the energy of the middle before charging back into the main hooks once more before the end…is seriously so badass that’s it’s nearly impossible to describe.

What I love most about Jack White is the influence he’s had on the rest of the music community. I’ve famously had almost no use whatsoever for 90% of his catalog – but I sincerely respect his actual approach to HOW he makes music, the extraordinary production techniques he’s both using and pioneering out there, and his sheer willingness to work with so many different types & textures of sound. I respect above all things, his need to push the boundaries in effort to come up with something new in Rock that we’ve yet to hear; and while that’ll always inspire similar acts to come out of the woodwork & use that influence of White’s artistic nature, it can often lead bands/artists into amazing new sounds & songs of their own. It’s the ambition of White above all things that should be relentlessly copied by us all…whether or not that’s how ya wanna sound, that part’s up to you. I know I’m more than alone on half of what I’ve said here, I’ve heard it all before; and while I’m still right of course (lol), I can understand where you’re coming from and why people look up to him as much as they do. AND…before you all grab your pitchforks to stab me…when the influence works out as well as it does for Jared on “So Strong” – obviously there’s a ton of validity in the sound/style itself – I get that – sometimes it all comes together so well that every twist & turn just oozes with cool. Is “So Strong” essentially a White-like idea? 100%! Anyone can hear that influence in the verses of this song for sure. The guitars as well of course – but LISTEN to how insanely rad that main riff is too! You’d have to be superhuman to resist it. Hype! is quickly living up to its promise of all-out Rock & the spirited energy that comes along with it – “So Strong” has that bounce & playful rhythm that’s guaranteed to grab your attention while still displaying an incredible amount of skill and songwriting ability that’ll make the musicians & players out there really take notice as well. And honestly – I love this kind of combination in sound. It really gives something to everyone in so many ways; on the surface-level, you can listen to the hooks and the killer way that Jared sings this song and you’d be more than happy – but if you dig into the tight musicianship and bulletproof hooks he’s created that form the backbone of this song’s biggest strengths, he’ll drop your jaw when you listen closely. It’s flashy, it’s stylistic, it’s certainly cool…but somehow, perhaps even despite the audible influences, “So Strong” is also incredibly organic and natural – a performance so fitting for Jared’s own style that you have to conclude he literally eats, sleeps, and breathes Rock’N’Roll.

Execution and commitment will be the biggest factors in convincing people like myself that would consider themselves outside of the whole Jack White/Black Keys thing of the past decades to climb aboard the Mancuso train. While bands/artists like that wouldn’t be my number one choice of something to listen to – the same rule applies to them – when they WANT to bring it, I’m ready to listen. When they want to stop being half-assed & lazy about the other half of their material, I’ll be even more excited to do that. Because right now…Mancuso’s proving that you CAN go out there and slay it 100% of the time at the beginning of this record; even on “Extraordinary” – which…in my opinion, SHOULD be ordinary in almost every sense of the word – it’s the way that Jared PLAYS this song that makes it worth its title. Other than that, I felt like there’s a ton of this particular tune that relies on…I don’t want to say ideas that have been ‘done’ – because I think this is still new enough – heck, at times, it’s almost like if RATM went in a Funk direction, which makes for a seriously cool listening experience music-wise. But I’d probably go with something like, the vocal hooks that Jared is using on this track almost leave you wanting him to challenge himself a bit more here…because he’s already displayed that capability on the first two cuts…and in that respect, it’s not that this third tune doesn’t sound uninspired – but easy for him perhaps. As a result, you get a really comfortable & confident performance on “Extraordinary” – and for many people out there, the straightforwardness of this cut and the more easy to digest hooks will hit the mark big-time…the musicianship is still entirely there as well…it could still be a favorite for many. Don’t get me wrong…good tune & all…I just felt like by comparison to the first two cuts that there was no real comparison…that’s all I’m sayin,’ songwriting-wise. I really don’t think you can beat Mancuso when it comes to execution and commitment though, which is what pulls you onto his side to root for him, even when a song might not fully hit it for ya…he still puts it all-in every single time and I can’t imagine a set of ears out there that would disagree with that assessment. He clearly puts his heart & soul into his every move and genuinely LOVES rocking-out with the crunch & icky-thump we all dig.

And as long as he leans towards the White-aspect of his sound and doesn’t accidentally become the next Danko Jones, then hey, right on…he’ll be on the right track. Cuts like “So In Love” threaten to pull him into the latter with the treble/mid-up distorted & meaty-riffs, flashier hooks, and pumped-up energy – there’s not a single doubt in my mind that he’s got himself a quick hit here…but that’s what worries me more than assures me, know what I mean? While “So In Love” is a stylistic burst of hot searing coolness and has a completely wicked solo…this is where that sincerity also seems to drop a bit in terms of the connection between the material and the artist…this cut feels like an intended hit. It’s a tough call in the sense that, obviously much of Hype! and Mancuso’s music in general is a true celebration of all-things rock, which would then certainly include ideas like “So In Love” as well – but again, if I’m comparing this cut to the initial two opening tracks on this record, it feels like we’ll all burn through “So In Love” really quickly. And YES – part of that IS Mancuso’s fault! I mean…he’s fashioned himself a very turn-uppable song here…and we all WILL I’d imagine…but there’s definitely a chance of this cut being worn out in comparison to the rest of Hype! quickly, so my advice is to pace yourself in loving this one.

Besides – if we’re talking about singles anyway, it’s obviously “Alright” ain’t it? How could it NOT be? This song absolutely has it all – and in my opinion, this is the blend of influences that adds up to the real sum of who Mancuso IS – this sounds less like others, more like himself, and puts Hype! solidly back on course. There are definitely still influences you can hear…but yeah, for the better part of “Alright” what I’m hearing is an artist that has taken that influence to the next-level here and found a serious gear that works. Hooks in the vocals begin immediately – Mancuso sounds freakin’ fantastic here & I love the vocal-flow in both main parts of this cut – the verse is stylistically amazing, the chorus amps it up to that next-level we’re looking for. Backing vocals? ESSENTIAL part of the magic on this cut – love’em. Stunning balance on display here once again, straddling the world between Pop & Rock in a blissful celebration of both styles blending into one seriously harmonious mixture and strong hooks everywhere you listen in the music & vocals. The breakdown & solo is killer, the way he brings the song back in is masterful, the hooks are entirely memorable, the energy is refreshing…”Alright” is downright addictive.

Like the jolt of inspiration that snaps the record back to life, “Alright” sends Mancuso into a strong beginning for the second-half of the album with its title-tune. Guitars up high & rippin’ it up with that stylish & slick tone, “Hype!” comes out swinging for the fence with its energy and once again, just oozes cool from its every pore. Rhythmic, groovy, Funk-Rock – Jared punches the emphasis into his words on “Hype!” and moves from beat to beat with swagger & style on-high – another exceptional combination of that old-school classic-rock vibe invading a modern-day sound. Mancuso doesn’t list RATM as an influence on his pages from what I can see…but that’s undeniably there to the point where I’m almost shocked to not see it written down somewhere…understood because that might make it confusing to those about to listen as RATM is definitely not the sound he’s ultimately going for – but LISTEN to the punch in the drums, the breakdowns, the Tom Morello-esque tones of the guitar and innovative ways that Mancuso plays it. Or you know, specifically spots around the 1:25 mark and the storming back into “Hype!” – that’s textbook RATM right there in structure and depth of sound – it’s all got a lighter & brighter veneer, but that’s definitely a similar energy. As for the rest of the cut, we’re probably heading more towards a Lenny Kravitz type combo in the edge, style, movement, & flashy nature of the verses, then shifting into a more Psych-Pop sound for the chorus, but like, with clear-headed direction & spot-on execution. “Hype!” is a short tune at just 2:18 – there’s nowhere to be lazy or hide and Jared knows that – he keeps the energy-level up and the entire atmosphere inviting for the whole song’s duration.

Just listen to the production on the opening drums and sound on “The Jungle” and you’ll hear how much attention to detail has been paid to this record both in front & behind the studio boards – they sound absolutely amazing, so crisp, so punchy – just immaculate. That being said…I was probably more on the fence with “The Jungle” than I was with many of the others, bringing me back to similar feelings I had in listening to “Extraordinary” earlier on. Were it not for the way that Jared throws himself right into his material with such confidence, commitment and conviction – a song like “The Jungle” would fall flat – it’s the way that he’s played this song that will have you loving it…and that’s justified. I think a lot of “The Jungle” feels familiar and similar to ideas we’ve heard in Rock’s illustrious history – but c’mon people, rarely do you hear it all done so damn well! “The Jungle” is pretty damn tight when it comes right down to it…and while you might feel like some of this song has been done in the past, you really can’t deny just how effective the entire sound is through the Mancuso perspective. Even if you somehow managed to not find something you dig until the solo comes up, you’re pretty much screwed thereafter – that’s one of the best & most innovative solos on the entire record and you GOTTA love it. That relentless spirit of Rock and tireless energy that Jared wields is a major asset and arrow in his quiver – when he lets the full power loose on a song like “The Jungle,” you really can’t help but feel the vibe and get right into it all. And that solo…again…I know I’m repetitive, but c’mon – that’s GOLD.

I dunno! You can all call me crazy if you like & that’s fine…but if we’re talking about the difference between a cut like “So In Love” that feels more designed to be a single as opposed to how naturally vibrant a track like “Play False Blues” comes out sounding…how naturally appealing it is…how strong that connection between the material and the music is…well…is there really a comparison? Like I said earlier more or less – I wouldn’t blame anyone for digging a cut like “So In Love” – all I’m arguing is that as a listener, as a song, as a complete experience – don’t we all get more out of a track like “Play False Blues?” Because THIS is slick as slick gets in the verse…and the way that Jared roars into the energy of the chorus on “Play False Blues” is nothing short of total detonation – he EXPLODES into the instrumentation of this track, which is ultimately the chorus of this tune, without words. He proves he doesn’t need a single one; don’t get me wrong, he’s KILLIN’ IT in the verses of this song and the ‘ah-ah-ah’ hooks are equally strong in how they pull us in – but the musicianship in this one track alone is worth twice the price of admission. I’d be pressed to find a finer example of Jared at his most innovative than what you’ll hear on “Play False Blues” – everything about this cut is exceptional; it’s as single-worthy as damn near every other tune on this record with about half the vocals, showcasing the fact that this artist is every bit as expressive, if not even more-so, with his guitar. Mind-blown! Honestly – “Play False Blues” is such an enormously colorful, wild, and all-out awesome set of ideas, executed beyond expectation, even with the high-standard of reliably entertaining musicianship set along the way. Everything about this song took my entire opinion of Mancuso’s music up a couple notches further.

“Optional” is a big reach hook-wise. Tough one to call honestly…I’m not 100% sure if that works or not. I think the verse works without question and there’s a solid chance those hooks alone are strong enough to carry this cut…I like the idea of the loud/quiet dynamics at work here in contrast between the song’s two main parts…but yeah…I gotta admit, that’s a bizarre main hook overall and not one that I can fully say for sure whether or not the people out there will absorb or not. I think if you’re a fan of going down the rabbit hole willingly with artists like Jack White then there really shouldn’t be too much of an issue following Jared into this idea either. You see…why I struggle with a track like this…is because it IS memorable – I don’t think that’s even arguable, know what I mean? So there IS undeniable value in that – I’d totally remember this was Jared Mancuso were I to hear this song months again down the road – and there’s something about that fact that can’t be ignored. I’m not quite sure WHAT it means, but I think that counts for something…hmmm…bizarre little ditty Jared, but it’s making my hamster move a little quicker on the wheel going round in my brain and I appreciate that. Loving the personality in the guitars throughout the verses…still digging the musicianship here…I think it’s the main vocal-hooks that raise an eyebrow or two, but I really can’t argue that they’re not effective. Interesting tune.

Giving his record a finale-style ending with the fireworks on display through the energy and pounding Rock of “Make It Right,” Jared concludes the Hype! experience on an amped-up performance that reminds you just how much this guy is capable of on the mic as well. It’s almost an oddity on the record – Mancuso’s never been afraid to flash shiny hooks on this album, but in the verse of “Make It Right” he’ll nearly head into terrain occupied by Ed Sheeran in the structure and flow of the vocals, before unleashing a vintage Alternative/Pop sound that defines the final song’s chorus. When he’s singing the actual line “Make It Right” – you can actually hear the added distance that likely had to be inserted in between Jared and the mic just to be able to house these gigantic notes on the recording and keep it consistent with the rest of the recording. I’m impressed! I think mix-wise, this entire record has been bang-on the whole time and this last tune leaves you with one more strong argument on behalf of the way this album has been put together in both performance and production. In many ways, “Make It Right” is a bit more of a straight-ahead Rock song…but I think once more, you hear the way that Jared is able to take a song to extraordinary heights by the enthusiasm & authentic passion he plays with – and that seems to elevate the experience every single time. “Make It Right” is quite arguably, one of the most accessible songs on Hype! for the masses out there; I’d personally take a “Play False Blues” every day of the week if I could, but I also think a track like that is pretty damn rare ultimately. Bottom line is that Jared Mancuso has an extremely versatile set of skills and abilities…he’s displayed amazing talent along the way and demonstrated what seems to be a limitless imagination & wild creativity in high gear – there’s zero doubt that he’s right into every moment of the music he makes and I love that you can genuinely hear that in the way he plays. He gets to make that choice on any given track on what kind of artist he wants to be and what kind of song he creates…he can go in the artistic direction like White, be experimental and wild, have amazing hits and a share or two of misses along the way, but truly find that satisfaction that so many artists seek in making music but never seem to find. Or he can clearly write tracks that could be hit songs for the mainstream if that’s how he feels like he wants to go with it all. Ultimately, he’s capable of combining those two directions into one, and that’s the magic of a record like this – it gives you a lil’ something of everything-Rock…which guarantees you something to love. Dude’s got style for miles when it comes right down to it…it’d be impossible not to enjoy listening to Hype!

The new record Hype! is officially released on August 21st this year – until then, stay up to date on the details and find out more about Jared Mancuso by visiting the official pages below! - Sleeping Bag Studios

A fleet of bands across the ocean like Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferdinand, Kaiser Chiefs, Bloc Party received acclaim and fandom with their first records. They all played loud guitars, had eloquent frontmen, and wrote danceable aggro pop-rock songs. Although they still pack venues and achieve decent unit sales, these bands seem to be stuck in the rut of trying to recreate their debut LPs, and their relevancy appropriately continues to wane.

So up pops Jared Mancuso, who takes all the elements of these bands and then blends it with the simplicity of 50’s rock n’ roll, subtle inspiration from early The Beach Boys, the catchiness of Weezer, plus the garage rock styling of Jack White and the punchiness of The Black Keys for a truly explosive raw and raucous mix on his latest album – “Superdope”.

The album is built upon portentous beats, luscious melodies and intimidating, yet wickedly thrilling guitars. It’s a tight, concise album that thankfully avoids trying to make any big artistic statement, and instead focuses on rocking hard. Consider also that Mancuso performed all the instruments (except the violin), mixed and produced the music and wrote the songs.

Something’s been missing from rock n’ roll music lately – namely smart, quality music made with guitars, drums, bass and vocals. Everything is pop and robotic voices these days, which is fine but bands that play rock music are increasingly rare. That role had been filled by the Black Keys to a certain extent. But we need more, and Jared Mancuso kindly obliges with this album.

A damn near perfect album, top to bottom, some tracks are better than others but there’s not a bad track in the lot. And two tracks alone are worth having this album for –namely the title track “Superdope” and the instrumental “Mayday”. Other gems for me include “Roll Over”, “Drive Me Crazy” and “The Other Side”.

These tracks sound powerful, direct and fleshed out. The songwriting focuses on making great melodies, layering them together and repeating just enough to guarantee that they are cemented in your head for the rest of the day.

Across the album you constantly brush up against the sound of an artist unafraid to mess with the template. And it’s so refreshing to see someone like Mancuso oozing with confidence and a will to push the boundaries and experiment with his sound.

Sure it may take a few listens for some to get into it but once you do it’s amazing how every single song on this album is just great, with no exception. And in terms of style, Jared Mancuso achieved something incredibly rare: he has managed to create something new, his very own sound.

“Superdope” is an essential alternative rock album if you like Jared Mancuso. “Superdope” is an essential alternative rock album even if you don’t like Jared Mancuso. To be honest, “Superdope” is simply an essential alternative rock album. Period! - Jamsphere Magazine

After a musician has been playing for a while they tend to experiment and search for innovative and fresh sounds. Sometimes this muddies up their progress as they reach into the unfamiliar. A way to regain their roots is to go back to the classics and refresh what drew them into becoming a musician in the first place. Our recent find Jared Mancuso has done just that and has reinvigorated his solo career.

Through the years he has been a part of many musical projects. This helped Jared Mancuso expand his range and talents. Collaborations allow you feed off another artist and challenge yourself to learn different styles to make a cohesive unit. He was able to take all these skills and spin them into his own unique solo style that has really started to hit its stride.

The latest group Jared Mancuso was a part of is called Not Fade Away. The project modernized and rocked up the music of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper, and their contemporaries. Diving into this early rock ‘n roll allowed him to become inspired by the simplicity and pop grooves that were the start of what Rock has become today but often drifts away from.

Now Jared Mancuso has pulled together these pioneering sounds along with catchiness of Weezer, the garage rock styling of Jack White, and the punchiness of The Black Keys to form something that is truly all his own.

His latest solo album, Superdope is scheduled for release on November 15th. The 10 track record brings this new, yet classic sound to the forefront and will set Jared Mancuso up to draw in a wide array of new fans.

The lead single “Roll Over” jumps out at the listener right away with a head bopping melody and a slightly dark vibe. The peppy vocals and instrument fills, including a violin, make for an interesting listen where you need to hear where it goes next. The simplicity of melodic early rock ‘n roll shows its face on “La De Da”. The happy tone demands sing-alongs from the crowd. The background harmonies add another layer that welcomes everyone in.

Jared Mancuso Is Superdope and One Cool Cat

The rocking title track “Superdope” brings the energy up a notch with distorted guitar and a raw tone. This one will have any crowd dancing along with their own chaotic energy. The sway ready “Rest Of Our Lives” with its short starts and stops and soaring vocals pulls the past to the future with a reckless abandon. The crashing guitar solo lets you know exactly what time it is.

Jared Mancuso shows he can slow it down as well on “Drive Me Crazy”. The grooving track drags you through the sludge with a raw tone reminiscent of the best garage rock that has been brought to the mainstream. The album closes with “Water’. This slowed down track brings together a lot of influences with its folk-like guitar mixed with soaring harmonies and clap along vibe that welcomes everyone to be part of the Jared Mancuso world.

Superdope is a fresh taste of what has been missing in modern rock. The melting pot of sounds has set the standard for the fun that rock ‘n roll can be again. - Indie Band Guru

Jared Mancuso is a true child of rock and roll.

Mancuso has been part of The Jared Project (alongside Jared Bardugone), the band Not Fade Away (which pays tribute to the music of Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, The Big Bopper and their peers), and now Jared has delivered his newest solo project, Superdope.

Superdope is…well…super dope!

This record is a welcome punch in the face from an amalgamation of classic, good ole fashioned, blues-inspired and infused rock and roll. So refreshing!

Jared Mancuso has mastered the styles of 1950s, doo wop, blues, and pop from an era he didn’t even live through.

His work ethic, his multi-instrumental mastery, and a knack for creating really awesome videos on a low budget separate Jared Mancuso from the pack. The video for Roll Over is seriously one of the better music videos I have seen that was not supported by a major production company.

Mancuso is one of the brightest stars in the current state of the rock and roll sky.

Each of the ten tracks on the forthcoming album are nothing but straight ahead, light up your life, make you get up and jam, rock and roll music.

If this doesn’t make you love rock and roll again, something is seriously wrong with you. - Middle Tennessee Music.com

Inspired by everything from The Beach Boys to The Black Keys, Jared Mancuso is an insanely talented dude, who can play any instrument on his albums. Although the Pennsylvanian has been involved with a number of other outfits, including The Jared Project and Not Fade Away, he now finds himself flying solo for the first time since his 2012 effort, A Very Pleasant Person.

His latest project, Superdope, is as precise as it is fun, and as sharp as it is raunchy. Here’s what we dug most…

Superdope explodes from the gate with Roll Over, a punk-infused riff that makes you feel like your cruising down the boardwalk in Venice Beach, California, and you’re not necessarily looking for trouble, but you’re not necessarily opposed to finding some.

The Weezer-esque The F*ck is a catchy, anthemic ode to millennial ambivalence. Be careful, this one might get stuck in your head…

“I can blame the stars and planets for all my problems, but that won’t get me anywhere
Or maybe it’s my shoes or clothes or hats I use to cover up my hair
It could be that I’m not good enough to make it, maybe I aint’ gotta prayer
But I sure as sh*t keep tryin’ even when I, I think I’m runnin’ out of air”

The riff in the album title track, Superdope is just flat-out wicked. When combined with the song’s vindication-theme, what you get is a piece of songwriting which one could argue rivals the greats. (Don’t roll your eyes—check out the song!)

Our Favorite Track:
Mayday [Instrumental] Less than three minutes long, this little ass-kicker is like a reminiscent combination of early 80’s ZZ Top and early 90’s Smashing Pumpkins. Basically, the best of both periods duking it out.

In short, Superdope lives up to its name. Loaded with crisp, raunchy guitar riffs, and plenty of lyrical attitude, it absolutely never fails to entertain. Listening to the album from front to back feels like the soundtrack to an episode of Californication. Seriously though, put on some headphones, lay back and close your eyes…can’t you just see Hank Moody carrying out some random shenanigans to Mancuso’s brand of punked-out funk-rock!?

On a more serious note, Superdope is filled with rich and complex punk/garage-inspired melodies, rhythms and vocals, all swirled together with tons of high & low, loud & soft, and stop & go contrast to keep a fan more than interested. The end result is an album that is not only technically and musically wonderful…it’s just plain fun. Truth be told, I’d love to be in Jared’s band. If you’re a fan of any kind of electric-guitar-based rock and roll, you’re going to love this album.

Whose lovechild…?
Picture this: Green Day and Weezer are sitting around all night playing 50’s rock tunes. At some point in time, Sponge crashes the party, and somebody in the room turns on a recorder. That recording would sound something like Superdope. - The Ark of Music

Jared Mancuso reignites rock n' roll with his incredible album "Superdope". Combining high energy party romps, tender 50's surf rock vibes, and throwbacks to blues, and early pop, Superdope easily puts Mancuso in a genre all his own. Set to be released November 15th, you can check out the first single "Roll Over" on Soundcloud.


TRACK BY TRACK


Roll Over – like a Molotov Cocktail thrown into a pile of fireworks, Superdope gets right in your face with funky, grungy electric guitar, crunchy riffs and warm arranged backup vocals. “Go on, roll over now” Explosive energy circulates around a tight, locked in rhythm section. Building throughout the song is the intense Led Zeppelin feel, and Weezer vibes. Electric guitars play in perfect synchronicity with each other. "You can make threats, I'm not the kind of person you can scare". Calm, cool and collected lyrics combat with the vibrant rock beat, like those fleeting heated moments in an argument. Sometimes things go much smoother when you Roll over and give in.

La De Da – a fun, tongue in cheek tune about people who seem to just let themselves be miserable. People can get hung up in bad relationships, or wanting companionship, when they haven't found how to even make themselves happy. With a jaunty chorus of La de da dee da’s, as if to say they’re ignoring the things they could do to be living a better life. By the end of the song you might find yourself arm and arm with your best buddy at the bar, Guinness's in hand, and a round of whiskey shots on the way.

The F_ck – (personal favorite) Awesome. Catchy, “I dive right in, then I quickly start to sink” “What the F_ck am I supposed to do?!” This song brings on the hard questions...what am I going to do with my life, should I move across the country, should I try to find myself, or should I stay put and keep hitting the pavement? “Ain’t got the words, because this pen’s running out of ink” The bridge builds in intensity with Ooh’s and crashing drum fills, melodic shredding guitars, harmonies so godly you might have to tie your shoes to your chair. “It could be I’m not good enough to make it” a refreshing dose of self awareness, Mancuso digs deep to understand what might be holding him back when it comes to commercial success in the music industry. This song, and this entire album exceeds genre boundaries, shows character, and exposes the raw talent, tenacity, and songwriting mastery that comprises Jared Mancuso's sound.

Would You – slows down for a minute “I’ve got these brand new shoes and I’m walking away from you” “you left your laundry here, come and get it when I’m not around”… breakups are never easy, someone you used to be so into is now the one person you hope to avoid at the grocery store. Beach boys vibes, 50’s surf rock pull you in like a slow crashing wave. The little bit of slap-back echo on Mancuso’s voice sends cool chills into the mix. The harmonized guitar solo paints a vivid image of a dark stormy beach, with simple drum beats keeping everything centered.“Now would you let it go?” Continually impressed by the focus on songwriting, and keeping it in the forefront. With a band that has the capacity to blow the roof off a warehouse , they know exactly when to hold back and put the song first.
Superdope – The title track of Mancuso’s new project is your next party anthem. Quick-paced lyrics and smooth falsetto. “Put your hands up for the superdope party” Beastie Boys meets the Black Keys. A winning combination of rock n' roll with a fun hip hop feel. They really dig their teeth in at the bridge, the groove gets heavy and the lead guitars scream and wail in perfect harmony. Only to exceed themselves at the last moments with an explosive, edge of your seat ending.

Mayday (Instrumental) – This is not your typical album ballad, this is a high speed car chase on the open freeway at night. Beefy, thick guitars, wild crashing drums, and what sounds to be piano ripping it like Jerry Lee Lewis playing Great Balls of Fire. Each member taking turns adding to this complex rock n’roll layer cake that makes it impossible to sit still. Mayday makes your standard rock 4 piece sound like the Trans Siberian Orchestra.



Rest of Our Lives – Vocals styling reminiscent of Weezer, and The Avett Brothers really allow the lyrics to shine on this track. Sweet harmonies and hot electric guitars go back and forth to tell a story of a love in the works. “I thought we’d be together for the rest of our lives” In the age of online dating, and hook up apps, it may seem like an impossible sea of love to navigate. You might have one of the best first dates of your life, only to never hear from that person again. Or the opposite, you may have had a terrible time, only to find that person is now sending you love notes in the mail and showing up at your work. Either way, it's these things a listener can really connect to with Mancuso's music. Songs about the everyday struggles of dating and pursuing love. “…I can’t believe we met last week. I can prove to you that my love never dies…if only you would take a second date”.

Drive Me Crazy – smooth fuzz guitar, shaker percussion, falsetto vocal doubling set the vintage, old-time recording feel of this track. Transcending from Modern rock to earlier styles of rock n’ roll with all the style and flair of Motown producers back in the 50's. The groove gets deep and muddy like hot fudge. The drum tom and snare are deep and dark toned. Like the love that dragged you so deep underground that you’ll never find a clean escape. “You know that you drive me crazy, and I know it’s all the things you do to me” A toxic, yet working relationship. As artists I think we all find ourselves in some crazy relationships, ever on the prowl for our next muse.

The Other Side – bright, fun, upbeat, full of energy; The Other Side is stumbling onto a beach party, and getting handed cold beers and Austin style street tacos. Gang vocals in the chorus bring out the tenaciousness in Mancuso's voice. “Need a ride to the other side” “ba da ba” surf vibes meets hard driving classic rock. “if you’re too cool for school, then you’re really never gonna make it”. I Showing up to a scene “fly as hell” ready to meet girls, and dance, and see how crazy a night can get. Bring the party over to the other side (the next morning).

Water – (personal favorite) the closing track to Superdope starts off with acoustic guitar, vocals similar to Anthony Kiedis, and the warm expressive feel of Neutral Milk Hotel. Perfectly panned harmonies, and acoustic guitar solo that warms your spirit like a fresh pot of coffee after a long night. “through the surf and sound, make my way back home” A nice throwback to this entire album, a work inspired by the simple effectiveness of early rock n roll bands and recordings, combined with all the party vibes of bands like The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Black Keys, and Weezer. As the song progresses the ooh La la’s build as the snare rolls back in, claps, and unique piano tones join as it all fades away, like the waves retracting back to the sea.

Superdope is set to be released November 15, 2016. You can get you're copy right here: http://www.jaredmancusomusic.com/ - The Spin Cycle

Jared Mancuso’s “Superdope” taps into a playful, freewheeling kind of indie rock. Over the course of the album Jared Mancuso incorporates elements of classic, alternative, and indie rock into a satisfying whole. Reminiscent of Weezer’s early 90s work the pieces linger in the mind long after they are over. The true highlight of the album are Jared Mancuso’s carefully crafted narratives that dominate the album and his powerful vocal delivery. Attention to detail means that the arrangements feel perfectly balanced, with nimble guitar work, loose rhythms, and a sense of hope.

“Roll Over” opens the album off on a high note, as the riffing works wonders. One of the highlights of the album is the shaggy dog story of “The F*ck?”. Here Jared Mancuso goes for a slight sense of confusion about the world, as the song grows in strength, coming into full bloom and a fantastic finale by the end. Dreamy to its very core is the ballad of “Would You”. Easily the best song on the album is the title track. A punchy rhythm defines the piece, nicely accompanied by some truly impressive jerky guitar work. Laid-back and feeling akin to Cake’s smooth and sly delivery is “Drive Me Crazy”. Bringing the album to a close is the expansive “Water”. Featuring a light and airy approach the song radiates reassurance, with the delicate arrangement feeling deeply welcoming.

With a true sense of style, Jared Mancuso’s “Superdope” is possessed with an undeniable sense of joy.

http://www.jaredmancusomusic.com

By Beach Sloth - Scope Magazine

(Hype! also claimed the number 2 spot for the Ark of Music’s TOP ALBUMS of 2018)

Punk and Garage rock-heads: Maybe you know—maybe you don’t. If you know—good on you. If you don’t—thank me later. Cuz here’s the deal, Jared Mancuso, the bright multi-talented multi-instrumentalist from Philly, the man who previously brought you the likes of 2012’s A Very Pleasant Person, as well as 2016’s Superdope (a project we called, “…an album that is not only technically and musically wonderful…it’s just plain fun.“), is set to release his third solo album.

Ladies and gentleman, may we present to you, Hype!, a collection of songs that not only represent Jared’s ongoing musical [r]evolution, but also his awareness of the culture around him and his ability to articulate what he sees—particularly in the realm of social-media—into words and music. (For much more on the man himself, be sure to check out our full interview with Jared Mancuso at the link below.)

HERE’S WHAT WE DUG MOST…

OUR FAVORITE TRACK…
God Damn! Hype! explodes into being with, Splendor, an absolute beast of a track that sounds like Weezer on steroids. Electric riffs with laser-like precision, join their percussive equal in what I’m certain is a raucously ironic take on the verbose state of Americanism. I love this track…

“Total havoc makes it hard to keep intentions clean and pure
Welcome to the revolution mount your ride and grab your sword…
(c’mon!)
Ride into glory, kick down the door
Destiny’s calling, take what is yours
Splen-dor…!”

Have you ever needed something so bad—that you didn’t know it until you finally had it? Well, as bizarre as that may sound, it’s how I felt the first time I heard the Zeppelin-esque buzz-saw riff in, Extraordinary. It was a moment where I was like, “YES! THAT’S WHAT I NEED TO HEAR! f*#@ YES!” Says Mancuso about this refreshing and punky track…

“People have always been nosy. ‘Oh did you hear? So-and-so said blah blah blah.’ But now we’ve almost crossed the threshold into​ voyeurism meets encouragement of behavior, good or bad. We can just observe what’s happening in so-and-so’s life, and then give it what I call a ‘hate-like’ and keep scrolling onto the next person we’re pretending to care about. It’s just really exhausting. Emotionally, mentally, even physically. So, Extraordinary is saying, you know, turn it off—it won’t be scary.”

Alright lambastes our culture’s ironic addictions to the self-defeating behaviors we so often perform with righteous and patriotic flare…

“Alright
You think you’re trying to be good
But you only hear what you want to hear anyway
Alright
When you speak without a voice
No inflection makes intention seem to fade away
Alright
I can’t stop filling in the blanks
Easier to hate you for the things you didn’t say
Alright
Hard to imagine life without it
Now the code is burned into our DNA…”

The instrumental break, from 1:13 to 1:43, in the album’s title track, Hype!, is another thirst quenching bit of modern rock’n’roll, with its wildly creative and delicious contrast.

OUR ‘OTHER’ FAVORITE TRACK…
That’s right, I’ve got two favorites on the album. Forty-two seconds into, Play False Blues, (a track which serves to scold a few of Mancuso’s favorite artists who’ve forgotten themselves), some kind of nuclear explosion occurs; then again at 1:53. The song toggles—brain-meltingly—back and forth between something Primusy, and something like mid-90’s Pumpkins. It’s—completely—sick.

Concluding the album with, Make It Right, Mancuso finishes right in his wheelhouse with a blend of punk, alternative, and surf-rock, that comes off with just a hint of Blink-182.

IN CONCLUSION…
Well, honestly, I feel like I’ve left it all out on the court with this review. I mean, seriously. At the end of the day, what we get with Jared Mancuso’s third solo album, Hype!, is basically his 2016 project, Superdope—times 10. Or, times 100. Whatever. You get the point, right? You hear it too, right? The riffs are stronger—and at times shake your guts. The rhythms are harder and angrier—in a good way; the lyrics are compelling and substantive. On that note, I’ve learned to love a Mancuso “C’mon!”, because I’m guaranteed a riff that can burn my house down is on-deck.

Ultimately, what we have here is an album to make rock-expats come’on home and love rock again. This is the kind of music that holds its genre up, creates a new bar, and makes me proud to do what I do as a music writer.

WHOSE LOVECHILD…?
Weezer meets Jack White with a twist of The Cramps…
(Yes, I understand the company I’ve just named. Perhaps you should listen to this album, ay?) - Ark of Music

It’s possible you remember Jared Mancuso‘s last album Superdope. The energetic, in-your-face, no-holds-barred rocker and his team of musicians are back with another record, Hype!, packed to the brim with jam after jam of pure rock and roll goodness.

Get ready to stand up on your desk. Raise your fists in the air. And proceed to have the most intense jam session you’ve probably experienced in quite some time. And we aren’t even all the way through track 1 yet, folks!

As we proceed through this 10-track rock n roll extravaganza, we are treated with big hooks, chunky riffage, unmatched energy and a level of chemistry that can only be found in a band that delivers such an intense, energetic, flawless wall of sound.

The catch is, there is no band… Jared plays all the instruments himself!

I am still not able to to single out a favorite track. My suggestion is to simply click play, turn the volume to 12, and prepare for your senses to be rocked, rolled, shaken and stirred for the entire duration. If your air guitar is close by, you will be grabbing it uncontrollably to jam along.

There is no denying Jared Mancuso delivers pure, unadulterated rock n roll music.

If you love to RAWK, you need Hype! in your collection. - Middle Tennessee Music

Originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Jared Mancuso has grown from relative obscurity to become one of the leading artists in a new wave of alt-rock. After developing his musical prowess on multiple instruments and refining his songwriting talents in college, Mancuso paid his musical dues in Strike of The Heart and later The Jared Project, releasing two full-length albums that blended the pop-punk and folk with bluesy riff-rock inspirations.

His solo ventures really took form in 2015 with the release of his debut album, ‘A Very Pleasant Person’. It was an album met with enthusiasm and positive reviews, and it pathed the way for his critically acclaimed sophomore release, ‘Superdope’, an album that prompted Jamsphere Magazine to exclaim, “A damn near perfect album, top to bottom!”.

Still riding high on the success of his previous endeavours, Mancuso’s latest work is ‘Hype!’, his aptly named third album and a collection of ten tracks that is sure to impress. Combining his own unique style with the timeless and varied qualities of his influences, the new album is classic rock ‘n’ roll that’s been brought into the modern era. It’s an organic, exuberant clash of technical precision and unbridled fun, much like the artist himself, whose signature slicked-back pompadour and well-tailored suits show a penchant for both style and substance.

Like his previous albums, Mancuso’s sound is a deft combination of influences, with his compositions and music evolving through almost seamless progression. Taking cues from the surf-rock vibes of The Beach Boys, the mid-century simplicity of the legendary Buddy Holly, and more modern, sonically-driven artists like Weezer, Jack White and The Black Keys, Mancuso has managed to find a sound that is wonderfully familiar, but also refreshingly new.

It’s a sound that is best illustrated on tracks like ‘Splendor’ and ‘Extraordinary’, two hits that arrive early in the album and assert themselves as standout favourites. Raucous and unrelenting, the two tracks combine heavy-hitting guitar riffs with a spiked, punk energy and keen social commentary, arriving at a rare cross-over between wonderfully entertaining and brilliantly meaningful. They’re the sort of tracks that Mancuso has become known for, and as ‘Hype!’ carries forward, it becomes apparent that there is plenty more of them in-store.

It’s ‘The Jungle’ that really caught our attention within the album, with the sub-three-minute tracking arriving like a bolt of Jack White inspired lightning. Riding some heavy ‘Icky Thump’ vibes, it’s a track that illustrates Mancuso’s connection to the modern rock greats, showing that if he’s not at their level just yet, then he soon will be.

You can grab your own copy of ‘Hype!’ on iTunes, with the pre-order link up and running ahead of the album’s August 21st release date.

Score: 8/10 - broken8records

Jared Macuso’s Hype! is an album ready and waiting to fill the room around you with chaotic energy and classic rock and roll brightness. It’s a project fit for the build-up to anything big – consider this your weekend playlist.

Splendor kicks things off with a punk-rock energy and a marching, anthem-like verse that leads you intensely to the hook’s resolve. Mancuso’s sound comes alive from the offset, you feel the vibrancy and bounce of the music in an instant – the guitars, the drums, the passion and pace of the delivery. After this, So Strong takes the creative route and offers chaotic, characterful, distorted riffs, and a rock and roll-esque back and forth between the high vocal notes and the low. Mancuso paints a picture, lays out a detailed and well structured scene. You get a sense early on that a live show is where things would really come into their own – the album’s artwork pushes further in that direction.

Extraordinary is a song that again utilises a noteworthy instrumental intro, giving the track personality from the start. The vocals come through with these flickers of additional details that add to the drama and colour of the experience. Much more than just the writing, these feel like passionate, thoughtful compositions, each one built up before you in an immersive, inclusive way.

By all accounts, this project feels like an indie-rock classic from around the time that The Hives were making waves. There’s also an accessible softness to the topics touched upon though, reaching out in a personal way to perhaps an even wider potential audience. There are elements of inspiration or motivation in some of the songs, and a sense of accepting who you are in others – this one in particular.

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So In Love is one of the more memorable songs on the album. By now, the Jared Mancuso sound has well and truly made itself known – these guitars, these modest but relevant effects, the voice and the development of the melodies – you know who you’re listening to. This song is the first though in which you really take on the ear-wormery of the writing and indeed of the riffs. The stop and start nature of the instrumentation and the melodic lines is a further trait of the artist’s that reaches a definite peak here. Having said that – Alright follows as a strong contender; things get gradually more interesting as the album progresses. There’s something comforting about this organic and carefree, classic rock escapism that you just don’t find all too often anymore.

The album’s title track introduces itself in a classic Mancuso manner. There’s a high-school feel to many of these guitar riffs, taking you back to a simpler time, and subsequently washing the vast majority of your worries away for a while. The Jungle follows and takes the rhythmic marching to a new level. The melody and the performance are notably stylish and soulful, the volume seems to explode into action, and the lyrics expand over longer lines – working hard to hold tight to your attention for as long as possible. This track becomes another that’s pretty unforgettable, and very easy to recognise once you’ve stumbled upon it.

Towards the end of the collection, Play False Blues offers more of the familiar set-up, though this time it’s the concept that draws you in. The shortness of the lines, the single note featured – you want to listen a little more intently, right before the instrumentation bursts into flames. The rock and roll breakaway between verses here is huge, really unique and crucial in making this song a definite personal highlight. There’s a certain artistry about it that sweeps you away.

At the penultimate moment, Optional brings hope and positivity, possibility, to the stage. It’s an important piece that offers some of the clearest lyrics yet for their gentle delivery and the gradually rising energy. The personal touch works its magic too, and the fact that these ideas relate to and connect with all of us. Make It Right follows and continues this theme to finish things off on an uplifting high. The bass-line blesses the ambiance, not for the first time. The delivery is hyped – manic, energizing – a great way to go out. This entire album brings to the forefront an artist with an inherent and unquestionable passion for rock and roll. The balance between nostalgia and newness fits well. Easily worth a download. - Stereo Stickman