Album Review: Nolo’s Debut Album "VERSIONS''
A Seamless Listening Experience
Here’s my take on them.
Nolo, the alt-rock quartet from Austin, Texas, has delivered a debut album that’s nothing short of spectacular. Comprised of Brett Mayers (guitar & vocals), Richard “Ritchie” Wall (bass & vocals), Drew Vena (guitar & vocals), and Jason “Jay” Amato (drums), Nolo has crafted an album that you can listen to from beginning to end without skipping a single track. In a music landscape where many albums fail to maintain consistency, Nolo’s offering stands out.
This album is a cohesive journey through high-energy grooves and deeply personal lyrics, reflecting the band’s shared experiences with mental health, addiction, and healing. Each track is meticulously crafted, making it a true pleasure to listen to.
Standout Track: “Appetite”
While every song on this album has its own unique appeal, “Appetite” really stands out. This track captures the stress and frustrations of everyday life with an edgy, alt-pop sound that’s both relatable and powerful. It’s easy to imagine “Appetite” getting serious radio play and even making its way up the charts. The song’s catchy melodies and poignant lyrics make it a surefire hit.
Community Involvement
Nolo isn’t just about making great music; they are also deeply committed to their community. They are big advocates for the SIMS Foundation, an organization that provides mental health and substance use recovery services for musicians, music industry professionals, and their families. Additionally, the band hosts an event called Sober Sessions at Recovery Unplugged, offering a supportive space for people to share their music without the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Tour Announcement
Nolo is kicking off their tour starting July 21st with The Unlikely Candidates. If you haven’t seen them live yet, you need to check them out—they put on an awesome show!
7/21 - Ft Worth, TX - @tulipsftw
7/24 - Witchita, KS - @thebrickyardclt
7/26 - Greely, CO - @moxitheater
7/28 - Salt Lake City, UT - @kilbycourt
7/29 - Grand Junction, CO - @mesa_theater
8/01 - Denver, CO - @theorientaltheater
8/02 - Casper, WY - @oilcitybeercompany
8/03 - Colorado Springs, CO - @theblacksheep
My Final thoughts
Nolo’s debut album is a must-listen. It’s rare to find an album today that you can enjoy from start to finish without feeling the need to skip any tracks, but Nolo has achieved just that. Their commitment to both their music and their community makes them a standout group of individuals. Don’t just take my word for it—give it a listen yourself and experience the magic of Nolo.
Check them out
Nolo Album Cover
