So what do you do when you're part of a successful local, Boston band with a faithful fan base and the big time looming over the horizon? Why not release a solo record. That's exactly what Max Heinegg did when his psychedelic grunge band, The High Ceilings, broke up earlier this year. Heinegg's "By June" is an album that is perfect for kicking back and drinking a nice cold beer after a long day. It's also a worthy companion for a cruise by the ocean, or whatever for that matter.
Heinegg is a published poet who came to the realization that he could take his poems and convert them into songs, which he decided was the path he would take after he saw the Smashing Pumpkins on their "Gish" tour back in 1991. One thing that really sticks out is how good of a vocalist Heinegg is. A lot of critics claim he has the sound of a younger Bono, which I'm not totally buying, but it's probably pretty humbling anyhow. He definitely is comparable to Nick Drake, with a little Robert Smith (of the Cure), and a lot of Elbow mixed in for good measure. Heinegg can hit the low notes, as well as completely tear away and conquer the high notes in a fraction of a second.
The record is definitely a huge departure from the music he was playing with The High Ceilings. It's very chilled out and more emotional than his earlier efforts. Right from the get-go, you get the airy aura and soaring melodies that Heinegg is a master at creating. He wants you in a different place when you hear his music, and he'll do everything in his power to get you there. Some notable tracks include the cut "Sedona," "This May" and the opener "By June."
Another interesting aspect of this record is Heinegg's musical interpretation of John Keats' "La Belle Dame Sans Merci." Heinegg claims Keats is his favorite writer and took great pleasure in creating this track, which is highlighted by some of Ian Kennedy's mandolin playing. It should be noted that along with Kennedy, Heinegg was backed by Jim Gilbert on the bass and Mike Piehl behind the drums on the album.
"By June" could be considered one long, 35-minute pop ballad begging to be consumed by the masses. Each song seamlessly flows into the others with graceful ease. Heinegg is staking his claim as a very talented songwriter who wishes to get his word out and heard... loudly and clearly.
Heinegg will be performing tonight (Dec. 3) at the Middle East Club down in Cambridge, Mass. The performance will be a record release party where you can pick up your advance copy of the album before its release the following Tuesday. If you can't make the gig at least get on www.maxheinegg.com, and check out what this man has to offer. Trust me, anything to get your mind off of the ensuing finals is a positive thing.
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