CARDINAL TRAIT
You Already Know (Emanon Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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You Already Know is a fine debut album from Cardinal Trait, a hard-driving rock band from Oklahoma. The CD features 10 original songs possessing catchy melodies combined with concise and taut music. Aaron Vaughn, the lead singer and acoustic guitar player, has a good voice that grows on the listener. Mark Sullivan, the lead guitar and bass player, consistently hits the right notes during his solos. The rest of the band includes of Josh Vaughn on drums and backing vocals plus Will Porter, backing vocals.

For now, you probably won't find Cardinal Trait on commercial radio. So you might have to search to hear their music. It's well worth the effort. Songs such as "So Called Friend," "Something More," and "Flashback" are wonderfully examples of good rock music: thoughtful, relevant lyrics; spare, emotional solos; and well integrated ensemble playing. You Already Know is a great first release by this band. Hopefully Cardinal Trait's large potential will be realized in their future musical releases.

© 2005 - Ron Saranich