ADD is
a fairly new amalgamation comprised of experienced musicians from various Chicago area
bands. Having formed in April of 2002, they have already accomplished much more in their
first year (and ½) than many bands do in their entire existence. These accomplishments
include gigs at the Metro and House of Blues, appearances with Dope, Zug Izland and other
major recording artists, and a sponsorship with Jägermeister back in June of this year.
On this brief, 4-song EP (plus one radio edit), ADD demonstrates a highly distinguished
sound combining elements of heaviness and melody with rock-solid songwriting.
Additionally, lead vocalist, Margaret Young, adds a rather unique twist to the metal
sound. It's not very common to see a metal band fronted by a female these days (excluding
bands like Arch Enemy, Sinergy, Opera IX…), but Margaret definitely has the sound of
a leader in her voice. It's powerful yet graceful, and she can seamlessly shift from soft
to harsh at any given moment. The passion behind her words is easily detectable.
As far as the music goes, ADD is somewhere between hardcore and metal with a considerable
amount of rock elements thrown into the mix. Both clean and overdriven guitars are
combined with successful results. Album opener and highlight, "Maybe," lulls the
listener in with a rather dismal, clean melody that builds up to a stone-cold groove
(definitely some head-bobbing material here). The album version of "Maybe" (as
opposed to the radio version) includes an excellent hardcore breakdown section as well as
a reprise of the super-catchy chorus. Tracks 3 and 4, "Sellout" and
"Reflect" (respectively), contain the same level of quality and consistency
found in "Maybe." However, track 2, "So Many Times," lacks momentum
and drags on with a dull, dreary chorus.
Overall, ADD seems to be on the right track. With the exception of "So Many
Times," this is yet another solid slab of metal for Chicagoans to be proud of. The
sound on 19 Minute Attention Span is very radio-friendly and has the potential to
reach a wide audience. With just a little more time and refinement (possibly the next
album), ADD should have little trouble rising to fame and fortune. Don't be surprised if
you one day find your band opening for them.
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