Q*Ball - Fortune Favors the Bald

"Fortune Favors the Bald," the new release by Q*Ball is a roller coaster ride from start to finish - diverse in sound and an album that pushes the limits of electronic rock. It’s hard to compare Q*Ball’s sound to more popular acts, but lets think U2, INXS, & Moby come to mind. “FFTB” varies from the edgier title track to songs that make you get up and dance.

The title track is an anthem dedicated to the “successfully bald.” This is where that roller ride starts & works its way up to the top. Q*Ball name-drops bald celebrities throughout the song & employs a fun harder electronic style.

The album takes is first turn with "John Hughes," which has more of a rock side, dominated by clean vocals & catchy guitar hooks reminiscent of Bryan Adams and "Summer of 69." The electronics have a twinkle and add to the rock feel of the song.

"El Disco" is the first drop on the roller coaster, with an exciting feel that made me want to throw my hands up! Finely detailed & full of twists & turns, the song has a great dance vibe from start to finish. I found myself moving to the tight house-like beats, and when Q*Ball's vocals begin, you feel inclined to do exactly what he says and start shaking your booty. This is an ultimate party song!! Q's vocals also hit a more falsetto pitch, illustrating how diverse his vocal style is. ”El Disco” is such a feel good song, culminating in Bumblefoot's Spanish-style guitar presence at the conclusion. Lyrics about being with someone & sustaining that first-time high only add to the fun. Q*Ball's El Disco

"Who Said Chivalry Is Dead? (Not Q*Ball)” is a perfect follow-up track – a song about a girl who could have been someone very special, but maybe things did not work out. Q apparently harps on a past relationship in this rare ballad rife with swooping synths that really stand out. "Everything" is also nicely placed on the album, with airy, spark-like electronics, melodic piano, & beautiful ambience. Q*Balls vocals are reminiscent of INXS here.

“Fortune Favors The Bald” takes another turn towards edgy rock-oriented songs at this point, with just the right mix of electronics, especially during the aggressive "I Can't Stop!" “A Different Age" employs more of a house feel and turntable elements that again add to the diverse mix of this album. As the album winds down, the party picks up again with the Prince-sounding "Super Ball” - great catchy lyrics that keep your interested all the way to the end.

“Fortune Favors The Bald” is an amazing album and a must have! This was an album in the making for 2 years and the quality of the sound & the music shows. Q*Ball should be proud.

“Fortune Favors The Bald” is available now at CD Baby, A Different Drum, & Digitone Records online! Visit www.qballmusic.com for information on ordering this release. Suggested tracks: 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 11. - Julie Johnson (www.graveconcernsezine.net)

www.cdbaby.com/qball2

A Different Drum

www.digitonerecords.com