First Time Back—Badge (2010)
The band Badge consists of brothers Matt and Mike Martin. On their debut release—First Time Back—they lay the foundation of their career as recording artists. One of the perks of this gig (writing CD reviews) is that sometimes you get to be there at the beginning of a new career. Occasionally they come out fully formed. More often, a new artist gives you a glimpse of their potential and invites you to join them on their journey of creative discovery. I would say that this CD falls into the latter category.
The Martin brothers are young men drawing from old sources: country, blues, classic rock, etc. And songs on this CD show that they have learned the lessons taught by the masters of those genres. Matt handles most of the lead vocals and Mike handles most of the lead guitar work, a division of labor that seems to play to the strengths of each. Although there is tentativeness to Matt’s vocals, you can tell that he has the voice and the ability to put forth the material he and his brother are writing. All he needs is the confidence, which he will gain as he sings more. And on the softer numbers (particularly on my favorite number—“Where I Belong”) this tentative quality works in his favor, projecting a sensitivity that makes the song work. And Mike’s guitar work is excellent throughout and is on display from the first song: the swinging and bluesy “Don’t Forget About Me,” which shows them beginning on a strong note.
The instrumental support provided by drummer Steve Sakamoto and Steven Courtney (who also produced the album) is just right and never overshadows the work of the two talented young men who supply the heart and soul of the recording. The CD provides an enjoyable listening experience, while giving the listener a glimpse at the potential still to be attained by these brothers in arms. First Time Back gives Badge a strong foundation on which to build their careers as recording and performing artists.