Local band The Demon Beat’s latest effort succeeds at reviving rock ‘n’ roll

The Demon Beat, a soul-infused rock trio from Shepherdstown, W.Va., claims to live by the motto: "Above all else, rock and roll should be f--king dangerous."

The group's latest album titled "1956" proves its dedication to this mantra.

The album is a mostly instrumental effort and serves as a stripped down representation of the group's new musical direction, delving into the most classic of rock ‘n' roll sounds.

The album's dedication to reviving a raw rock ‘n' roll sound comes as no surprise, considering how it got its title "1956."

On New Year's Day of 1956, Carl Perkins, the artist recognized for coining the genre rockabilly, released his song "Blue Suede Shoes," which would go on to be his first million-dollar seller and Billboard Country hit.

That March, Perkins and his band were severely injured in a car wreck.

The month following the wreck, while still recovering, Elvis Presley would go on to make the single the classic hit it is today.

Lead singer Adam Meisterhans said though Perkins' story can be depressing, it signifies a personal and musical revolution and it motivates the band to not only accept what it's given, but to always be open to rediscovering its sound.

"It's definitely a whole new animal. This album wasn't just a collection of songs we'd had around and been playing live. It was something we've put a lot of work into. The result is pretty raw and organic," bassist Tucker Riggleman said.

Track "Movement 1" introduces listeners to the album, showcasing the group's ability to lure you in with ominous instrumentals that keep you searching for more without being too energetic and exhausting.

The album channels influences from groups like Brand New, who pioneered the emo/pop punk scene with an experimental and menacing sound.

Though a good effort, the album is a much darker direction for the group, and listeners should become familiar with earlier works like "Sh-t, We're 23" before they give "1956" a listen – if only to become accustomed to Meisterhans' powerful, shrill voice, comparable to Jet lead singer Cameron Muncey.

Standout track "Movement 5" impresses listeners with a powerful and undeniably catchy guitar riff.

The incorporation of the more mellow side of Meisterhans' voice with the exasperated (in a good way) sound of the guitar is a unique combination that allows The Demon Beat to blend in well with most current mainstream rockers.

"Movement 3" proves the band's got talent, solely based off of instrumentals alone.

The track encompasses the variety of instrumental sounds the group has to offer, from punk to soul, zoning in on vocalist Meisterhans' and bassist Riggleman's entrancing rhythms.

The Demon Beat is set to perform at 123 Pleasant Street Saturday at 10p.m.

To learn more about the band and to preview "1956" visit http://bigbulletrecords.bandcamp.com/album/1956.