Niles, Michigan, a town of twelve thousand give or take, has produced some powerful music over the years. Tommy James and the Shondells formed here and recorded "Hanky Panky." Tommy Shaw of Styx wrote "Too Much Time on My Hands" while sitting at Mark's Bar, and legendary guitarist Jake Cinninger also grew up in this town. Now, another Niles homegrown band, The Erly, is ready for your approval.
The Erly consists of Trevor McDonald (guitar), Collin Mattiford (bass), Fran Gleason (drums), and Simon Hurst (keyboard), all accomplished musicians from the Midwest.
Their album Salem Lights is set to release on September 4, with three tracks already available. The album features 11 heartfelt songs blending blues, funk, and folk, offering something for everyone. Let's unpack what this album has to offer.
The first track, "Carolina," with its infectious, driving beat, is the perfect start to the set. It's a traveling song that gets feet tapping and guitar riffs that put a big smile on your face. As you cruise along to that railroad beat, you know you're in for a great adventure. Put the convertible top down and hit the road—this is going to be a great trip.
"Sally," the third single released at the end of July, follows with the same happy, upbeat vibe. The organ work gives the song a gospel touch without going overboard. For three minutes, we journey with the band in search of that special someone who lights up our lives. The song resonates because we've all experienced the euphoria of finding our person, and here she is—Sally.
"OH10" slows things down as we reach the middle of both the country and the album. It’s the second teaser released from this album and well-deserving of a spot on your summer road trip playlist. This track offers a feel-good blend of slipping under the radar, relief, and a hint of piracy as we arrive at "Let It Roll," ready for a little reassurance. The message is clear: go with the flow, to the rhythm of solid blues.
We pick up the pace again with "Reading the Call." It’s a bit more up-tempo with a slightly darker theme. The jangly rhythm gets us swaying to the happy sounds while the subject of paying attention whispers in our ears. Does the next track hold an answer? "Oh Well" slows the mood with a pure slow-dance vibe. This song showcases the band’s musical abilities—each instrument is heard, yet only contributes what is needed. The result is a haunting blend of instrumental and vocal music that quietly shines with perfection.
"55 on the Other Side" ramps up the tempo and displays the band’s sense of humor. The first single from the album reinforces the feel-good vibes established in the first half of the record. It’s pure aural happiness for the drive home. The call-and-response style gives this fun musical romp a place in your mind.
Next up is a ballad for self-reflection. "Wreckage" speaks to us all. We all need a little help to get through this world. The allegorical wreckage of our lives may seem insurmountable at times, but hope is just around the corner—you only have to ask. Once again, the pure musicianship of The Erly shines. The band members contribute just enough without overpowering each other. The bass and drums lock together, providing form and foundation, while the keyboard and guitar complement the lyrics.
Rowdy and driving, "Give Me a Sign" bursts in with a hot energy. More straightforward rock than the rest of the album, yet perfectly at home within it. Once again, Hurst’s keyboard work stands out, lifting the entire song and leading us to the good, stiff drinking tune, "L.A. Time." You can almost picture yourself at the bar with the band, living on L.A. time. It’s the perfect song to tell your story to while hoisting a pint of liquid salvation. With straightforward lyrics and a great beat, everything here belongs. Pull up a stool and shine on.
The album closes with "Salem Lights," a soulful, straightforward blues track that offers the listener a nostalgic landing. The tune feels both new and familiar, taking you back to countless nights spent dancing under the stars, trying to figure out where life is headed. Rather than abruptly ending, the song gently fades, leaving a sense of unresolved peace—the perfect ending to a great album.
