The sophomore effort “Let’s Try The Otherside” continues from where the debut album “That Little Man” left off. With new life experiences and additional knowledge, it is quickly apparent that this music has grown and blossomed. The music is harder hitting and more powerful than before while still holding onto the quirky side PepperDome is known for. Although each song is unique in its own way, there is a common thread that runs throughout the album to make this music a collective whole. The music has a solid drum-bass foundation that is clearly complimented with the guitar and vocal overlays. It’s the thought process and phrasing of each song that makes them unique and allows them to stand out from today’s music community. Don’t be surprised when you notice all the melody and dynamics embedded within the album. 

 

If you are expecting to hear songs about an ex-girlfriend, alcohol, drugs, or big shiny things, move on.  The album’s messages reflect on one of the major themes embedded in PepperDome, understanding and exploration. Each song is designed to not only entertain, but to reflect on the world within and around you. As John says, “ We all have some level of ignorance in our lives, but we should become more aware of ourselves and our surroundings.” The lyrics are written to help educate and open your eyes to the world. Touching on the current state of the world, to families, friends, life changes, and personal pride, “Let’s Try The Otherside” pushes the limits while keeping a positive up-tempo feel. “I am in general a very happy and balanced person, so making hard rock tunes with a positive outlook is a challenge I enjoy,” John explains.

 

Right from the first track, “Wake Up,” there is intense, hard hitting, dynamic, melodic music with straight to the point lyrics. This recipe continues through the album but with slightly different ingredients to create the in-your-face title track “The Otherside” to the more meditative “Reality.” The almost sleazy and dirty “Tigers in Boxes” is a direct yang to the fun and exciting “Adventure.” But don’t be surprised when you hear the common thread that runs through all of these songs including the moody “Hopes and Dreams.” It is true, “That Little Man” created the fan base and foundation for PepperDome but “Let’s Try The Otherside” will bring the band to great new heights.