Track Review: Brett Copeland // Ruse
Combining the sounds of Black Sabbath, Muse, Queens of the Stone Age and Led Zeppelin, singer-songwriter Brett Copeland is brewing his own type of rock. While Brett can be placed in the contemporary alternative rock category, he has shown time and time again that he is not to be pigeon-holed. Receiving a reputation for high-powered melodies and engaging lyricism, Brett is making waves and building a loyal following. The latest addition to his repertoire is the single ‘Ruse’.
Following his critically acclaimed ‘Lasso Stars’, as reviewed on The Other Side Reviews, BuzzMusic and FV Music Blog, ‘Ruse’ is a powerful rock single. Co-written by bassist Justin Smolian, this track is a collaboration of minds and creative souls adding guitarist John Notto and drummer Corey Coverstone to the bill. Penned “literally before the pandemic and global lockdown hit”, ‘Ruse’ showcases the mastery of Brett and Justin to write, record and mix a track remotely. It’s true, online collaborations are the way of the future!
Touching on the narcissism, ego-driven, power-hungry elements in sociopolitical climate, ‘Ruse’ exposes the gritty undergrowth of surviving a capitalist society. Described by Brett as being a song “about the madmen and women who rule the world”, the track shows how humanity is obliged to come to terms with what is happening behind the political curtain. It is never nice to see the grimy side of things, but sometimes viewing this desperate situation is the only way to accept the truth.
Using his warm, although slightly gruff vocals, Brett and his band embrace a robust rock anthem for contemporary society. Reminiscent of 70s rock bands, ‘Ruse’ uses dynamic guitars and pounding drums to build a meaningful melody. While the melody is flowing and harmonic, it does hold a twinge of melancholia with Brett’s vocals, in particular, emphasising the seriousness of the underlying message. While I enjoy all of Brett Copeland’s music, it is in ‘Ruse’ that he showcases the depth and maturity of his sound.