Joel McCreight is a true believer. He is an extraordinarily talented singer and guitarist, and a fine songwriter. Evan’s Dilemma is his band and have been around in some form or another since the 1990’s. They are a Greenville institution. His longtime partner in crime is the superb drum master Kevin Heuer. The two of them have been at it forever, and they have produced another great record.
You Zub readers may remember that I was the original bass player in the band, and they produced a fine cassette for Zub back in the day. I also produced some great material for them at my studio, so these guys are close to my heart. They are my friends and I’m thrilled they are still putting out great music.
The sound is a slightly heavy power rock, heavy on melody, propulsive and catchy. Joel can write some great hooks, and then shake them up, as on the downward inversions on ‘Into Your Glory.’ ‘Brothers And Sisters’ is the quintessential Evan’s Dilemma song, breezy, catchy, vaguely reminiscent of U2, with a lyrical content that straddles the lines of modern and Christian rock. The band has always had a thoughtful spiritual view, and this song is a great example. ‘Earth Song’ (with some blistering guitar) and ‘Under The Sun’; are reminiscent of later-period Midnight Oil, a band that hasn’t crept into many people’s consciousness, but is a welcome reference for me here.
‘Be A Little Better’ reminds me of a McCartney anthem, featuring some nice piano and understated Ringo beats from Mr. Heuer. ‘Dreamer’ is another beautiful ballad with Joel in his best voice. LP ender ‘Sunrise’ is an epic jam Joel is so good at writing.
The sound is fantastic and has a big production. They play so well that I would have loved to hear a few stripped down songs, hearing Kevin’s drumming and Joel’s vocals without so many guitars and synth pads. But that’s just my style..Like i said, Joel knows what he is doing, he’s a true believer, and Under The Sun is a great recording from a once (and maybe future?) Zub band. Best of luck to them on this new release from the extended Zub family!
Evans Dilemma is playing an album release show at the Bohemian Cafe in Greenville, SC at 3 pm on December 8, 2018, along with J .Michael King and Niel Brooks!