In his 35+ year long career as a musician, you can be damned sure that Todd Underwood has picked up more than many a trick. On ‘Extraordinary’, he’s brought to life an eclectic piece of modern rock that places delightfully cheery and optimistic melodies front and centre of its ethos. From back to front, this record has you in a good mood without once dropping the ball. There’s also a delightful diversity that Underwood brings to his sound, constantly innovating with differing arrangements and equally unique instrumental choicess.
Kickstarting the record with a loveable song about that special person, ‘You’re My Everything’ comes shining through with a chorus line that’s instantly an earworm. The simple vocal harmonies before the titular line become an easy moment to latch on to. It’s a cheery pop rock anthem without a doubt. On ‘A Little Faith’, Todd goes a bit more old school with his choices. Opening with a slick electric guitar note, and also seeing Underwood’s own vocal performance more gruff and gritty, it feels like a pitch perfect piece of 80s revival rock.
I’ll also make note of two more tracks that particular gripped my attention across this record. The sizzling hard rock energy that’s brought to life by a simply raucous riff on Are You Gonna My Way is an immediate replay button for any hard rock fan. The chorus line, slightly processed to create a unique sounding almost robotic delivery is a welcome note of experimentation on an otherwise classic piece. Then there’s of course the album’s titular piece, ‘Extraordinary’ itself. The track feels like an appropriate summation of the record as a whole, carrying with it perhaps the most undeniably joyful and warm vibes across the project.
A delight for any rock fan to stumble on to.