If there is one band that deserves more recognition, it is The Driver Era. Consisting of brothers Ross and Rocky Lynch, formerly part of sibling-band R5, this duo has been releasing upbeat and experimental tunes since 2018.
Since their first single, “Preacher Man,” they have been routinely putting out alternative, dynamic songs, contributing to their placement in the “indie” or “independent” genre.
On Friday, they released their fourth studio album. Titled “Obsession,” it accurately encapsulates that strong emotion and desire toward someone. Each track was noticeably crafted with intent, each fitting the theme for the body of work.
Concurrently, the pair is on tour from January to July 2025. They are performing in several countries, including the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, Brazil and Chile.
Prior to the album, the duo released seven of the 11 songs as singles, providing a glimpse into the complete project. Through mainly upbeat instrumentation, lead singer Ross passionately sings about his muse and romance in general. This 30-minute album features several catchy baselines and many funky rhythms.
One stand-out track, “Touch,” features a distinct sound in comparison to the remainder of the project. The cadence could be described as “moody” as Ross sing-talks to the subject.
In the chorus, he informs his love interest that if they are interested, the two could “touch.” At the same time, an electric guitar creates an ambient, captivating beat, persuading those who listen to dance or move along.
“Nothing Left to Lose,” the sixth song on the tracklist, contains a groovy baseline that immediately piqued my interest upon the first listen. Accompanied by a steady pattern on an electric keyboard, Ross sings about the beginning of a relationship.
Straightforwardly, he tells this romantic interest how he cannot lose her. The syncopated and danceable beat shifts towards the end after Ross emphasizes his desire not to lose the subject.
The previously released track “Don’t Take The Night” has a catchy beat and a chorus easy to sing along to. The instrumental is recognizable and pop-like, unlike many other songs on the album. It includes synths reminiscent of ’70s disco.
Similarly, “Can’t Believe She Got Away” incorporates a disco-like, animated music break within the chorus. The electric guitar leading the percussion break causes the piece to become club-like and natural to dance or party to.
With summer approaching, this collection of songs is excellent for driving on a sunny day with the windows down and wind blowing, or a relaxing beach day. They also have great potential to blast in one’s room for personal enjoyment. This album would be a blast live in concert as well, where you could feel every beat and rhythm as it encapsulates you through the speakers.
If the songs were longer, it might be a perfect album. However, the length of a song does not determine its value. The Driver Era has released a superb album, worthy of more attention and acknowledgment from the general public. As some may say, listening to their work may cause an “Obsession.”
4/5 stars
rross1@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @thedriverera, Instagram
