Time And Colors is a richly emotive track that ties together Conor Oberst and John Rzeznik into a catchy, instrumental-heavy rock format. The deliberate arrangements elicit comparisons to Death Cab For Cutie, while the production allows the distinct elements in the tracks the ability to shine alone and as a unified front. Life in a Bag refreshes the style of John Mellencamp and Tom Petty, infusing a little bit of blues and soul into Pagano’s inimitable sound. The splashy drums are used to great effect here, while the guitar line laced through the track provides vocal highlighting at all of the right point.
16 Other Ways is our favorite track on the Time And Colors EP. The melody that Pagano establishes with the drum/guitar dynamic showcases an influence that is far-reaching as possible; listeners can discern hints of Soul Asylum and Deadeye Dick here. The sizzling guitar riff that bubbles up during the cut provides the cherry on the top of this single. Listeners will be singing the chorus of 16 Other Ways long after the track has ceased to play.
Candles Hope and Faith slows things up, showcasing the more tender side of Pagano. The same drive and dedication that permeated the first half of the Time And Colors EP continues here as Pagano gradually increases the tempo. Like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, the track sparkles as it reaches its zenith.
The remix of Mamma Don’t Call Me Home concludes this mini-album, coming forth with a swirling, psychedelic sound. Guitar riffs take on the allure of Slash while the stripped-down Detroit style of the track establishes something wholly different than had been heard on this release. This is a solid EP; after hearing Time and Colors, fans will be thirsting for more.
Top Tracks: 16 Other Ways, Candles Hope and Faith
Rating: 8.4/10
Joe Pagano Time And Colors EP Review / 2015 Self / 7 Tracks / josephpagano.bandcamp.com/