Dimitri’s Rail is a rock band based in Houston, TX, and was formed in 2001 by singer/songwriter Paul Ehmer. The current line-up consists of Paul on lead vocals, Justin Pena on guitar, Eric Dockery on bass, and Mike Maloney on drums. The group had success following the 2010 EP, ‘Wake Up,’ and their songs are played regularly on radio stations from Texas to Pakistan. Their new single, “Will Never Break” received a Grammy nomination in 2012 for Best Rock.
‘Back To You’ is the group’s latest full-length album, released in Fall 2012 and produced by Daryl Youngblood. It is full of high-energy guitar-infused anthems, smooth soul-baring ballads, and everything in between. Retro themes and a mix of musical styles add to the essence of what is definitively Dimitri’s Rail’s signature sound. It’s very easy for the listener to imagine themselves dancing in the crowd and watching each song performed live. The title track begins with the lines, “My eyes are open, but I’m not awake. These years have left me with all my mistakes. And I never thought I’d ever end up here. I can’t pretend that I’m ok.” Relatable lyrics that speak of someone who has lost his way and is trying to find the path back to a place of peace within himself and making amends with those he left behind. The official music video for “Back to You” is featured on their MTV profile and can also be viewed on their YouTube page.
“Know Me” has a surprising bit of humor at the beginning that will make you smile and wonder what’s coming next. The track itself is a catchy rock tune with attitude, a message to all of the haters and critics that they cannot bring you down. This song, along with “Just Breathe” and “Fade Away,” benefit the Fender Music Foundation and 50% of sales are donated to the charity. Fast tempos, aggressive (but poetic) lyrics, guitar solos, and staccato drum beats make these tracks hard to ignore.
Several songs have been revamped from earlier versions, such as my personal favorite, “Foo.” Renamed for this album as “What Lies Ahead,” it has a slightly mellower feel and subtle alterations to the lyrical phrasing, although the wording is unchanged. In a side-by-side comparison, I’m fond of both versions for different reasons, but each fan will have to listen and form their own opinion. “Rock a Billy” is, as the name suggests, a fun, up-tempo song with influences from the 1950’s with a modern twist. Live video from their 2010 show at the House of Blues showcases the band’s energy on stage, but the studio track on the new album is no less powerful.
Broken hearts, lost love, and past regrets are common themes, threaded through with the hope that there’s still time to change the future. Slower tempos and memorable choruses in “She Says,” “Romance and Hate,” and “Through the Window,” illustrate the ups and downs of a relationship. The lyrics and emotional intensity of “Through the Window,” speak to anyone who has had to watch a former love with someone else and try to be happy for them. Although now realizing his mistake in letting her go, the vocalist turns away and sings, “If you see me looking through the window, just pretend you don’t know who I am.” This is my favorite track on the album and one I had the pleasure of downloading when it was introduced in 2011.
“Home” has a slow, dream-like quality and begins to pick up speed before it hits the climax of the chorus, which is a faster rock. The melodious tune slows once again for the second verse and builds to an electric solo after the chorus. The presence of orchestral instruments adds a unique quality to the song. The hit single, “Will Never Break,” also features violins in a beautiful string arrangement that accompanies the guitar, bass, and drums throughout the song. Haunting melodies swirl among the empowering lyrics about being set free from the chains binding him as he exclaims, “I might bend, but this time I will never break!”
On the whole, I enjoyed this album very much. Some songs took a few listens to really appreciate the full effect, while others grabbed me from the start. It has elements of different rock styles, from the fifties to the eighties to current, and well-composed harmonies and musical arrangements. A great album for eclectic music tastes and a stimulating mix of songs to jam in your car. I have followed the band for several years through their personal and professional accomplishments and they continue to impress and entertain me.
You can purchase ‘Back To You’ here and connect with Dimitri’s Rail on Facebook, Twitter, and find other social links and updates on their Official Blog.
Photo and video property of Dimitri's Rail
NRM 2/7/13
