Year Released: 2023
Genre: Rock / R&B
Duration: 4:15
Label: MTS Records
Producer: Tim Hadley
Engineer: Dana Cannone
Featured Guest Vocals: Mia Z, Megan Paullet

Review:
Nied’s Hotel Band returns with a powerful anthem, “We’re In This Together,” a track that epitomizes the spirit of unity and collective strength. Drawing from Pittsburgh’s deep-rooted blue-collar ethos, the band captures the zeitgeist of social resilience, wrapping poignant messages in a tapestry of classic rock and R&B influences. The song’s earnest call for harmony is matched by its engaging instrumentation and soulful vocals, resulting in a piece that is not just a song but a statement.

The track opens with an optimistic proclamation in the chorus, establishing the theme: “We’re in this together / All in this together / We’re stronger together / We gotta’ get along.” With a spirited delivery from lead vocalist John Vento, these lines lay the foundation for a song that seeks to bridge divides and inspire hope. Vento’s vocal tone resonates with sincerity, embodying the band’s hardworking roots and reflecting a desire to connect with the listener on a deeply human level.

Musically, the song unfolds with an infectious groove that blends robust rock riffs and R&B rhythms. Guitarists Tim Hadley and Jim McCullough weave melodic lines that complement the steady foundation laid by Eugene Perry on bass and Greg McIltrot on drums. Their performances are seamless, capturing the chemistry developed over the band’s two-decade-long journey. The arrangement allows ample space for saxophonist Ed Jonnet to inject expressive, jazzy runs, adding a dynamic layer that elevates the song’s impact.

Featured guest vocalists Mia Z and Megan Paullet contribute an extra touch of soul, their harmonies enriching the track and echoing the central message of togetherness. Their voices intertwine gracefully with Vento’s, creating a choral effect that accentuates the song’s rallying cry.

Lyrically, “We’re In This Together” balances simplicity with urgency. The verses encourage listeners to “turn down the heat” and “meet on common ground,” presenting a direct appeal for peace and understanding. The pre-chorus delves deeper, with lines like “If we could only imagine / And we could all come together as one,” inviting reflection on the power of unity. The bridge expands on this theme, suggesting that by working together, people can “set the world right” and “trust our hearts.” These lyrics are timely, reflecting a world in need of reconciliation, yet timeless in their universal appeal.

The instrumental breaks add to the song’s dynamic texture. Jonnet’s sax solo channels raw emotion, offering a moment of introspective calm amidst the song’s forward momentum. The subsequent guitar solo by Hadley brings a burst of energy, while McIltrot’s drum breakdown injects a touch of rhythmic playfulness, providing a foundation for an a cappella rendition of the chorus that underscores the song’s call to action.

The production, handled by Tim Hadley, maintains a raw, live feel that captures the spirit of the band’s celebrated performances. The mix by Lee Marks ensures that each instrument and voice has its own space, allowing the song to breathe and conveying a sense of immediacy. It’s a mix that feels intimate and powerful, enhancing the song’s thematic resonance.

Similar Releases to Explore:

1. Bruce Springsteen – The Rising (2002)
   A soulful, rock-driven reflection on resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
2. Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes – Hearts of Stone (1978)
   A blend of rock and R&B with themes of community and endurance.
3. Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band – Against the Wind (1980)
   A classic rock staple that explores themes of struggle and perseverance.
4. Van Morrison – Wavelength (1978)
   A mix of rock and soul, with Morrison’s impassioned vocals leading the charge.
5. The Doobie Brothers – The Captain and Me (1973)
   A rock album rich in harmony and musical camaraderie.

For a more complex dive into similar themes and styles, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers’ The Last DJ (2002) offers a deeper, more critical look at unity and social commentary, blending rock with poignant lyrics.

Verdict:

“We’re In This Together” stands out as a sincere and musically engaging anthem. It is a song that does not shy away from its message, urging listeners to find common ground in a divided world. The combination of heartfelt lyrics, powerful instrumentation, and polished production makes it a compelling piece for both long-time fans and new listeners.

Rating: 83/100

–Doug Davis