Making pop rock that is distinctive is a feat, whether it relies on inspiration drawn from other musical sources or whether it brings up something completely new. And even a bigger feat comes when it all comes from a brand new artist/band that is just starting out, coming up with their initial release.
The case in point is In On It, the debut EP by a duo Rob & Ellen, comprised of one Rob I. Miller and Ellen Matthews. So what makes Rob & Ellen’s 7-track EP distinctive? It is original in the sense and in the manner that all modern pop rock music can be original, making all the sounds they like and cherish that went on before them completely their own, picking up on their essence and making them blend in a manner that turns out to be fresh, and frankly, utterly listenable.
I Rob & Ellen’s case, it is a jangle/power pop combination of all decades blended into one with quite a great balance created out of their obviously vast and detailed record collection, where the first two Big Star albums and The Lemonheads and The Replacements’ more melodic works are probably more worn out than the other records.
Yet, all that music that inspired Rob & Ellen to pick up their instruments and microphones is heard through their own ears, giving it a personal, and at the same time, new and fresh outlook.
