The Mask (Album Review) By: Dean Chiungos

When you're Eight Feet Tall, you always stand out, especially in a crowd.

Because you're fundamentally outstanding.

So it only follows that 8FT's debut album, "The Mask," is an artistic revelation, a diverse, progressive, seven-track mashup that's hooking pop and underground music fans alike, and everyone in between.

With the album's release, frontman Pete Doom -- whose stage name hardly masks the undying optimism projected in his seamless lyrics -- has made one giant leap into the upper-echelon of "undiscovered" hip-hop talents.

Then again, those of us who've followed Pete's evolution over the past decade have long since discovered his ability to unify a band, fusing orchestral originality with flowing rhymes. In "The Mask," 8FT's teamwork is well complemented by the enchanting refrains of guest vocalist Sarah "Lil' Shrimp" Semiski, the voice of Big Ol' Dirty Bucket.

However ironically, and unlike most musicians with mainstream potential, Pete doesn't wear the proverbial mask. If you've seen him live -- when an enhanced passion emerges in his voice, one that should continue to develop in 8FT's produced tracks -- it's plain to see that he's the face of the group and its overwhelmingly uplifting vibe, a natural entertainer.

Thoughtfully musing on the uncertain state of the world and politics without political motivation in "Fight Your War" and "Fly Summer," Pete inspires the pursuit of realistic ideals and appreciation for life. Having recently lost his father -- a great man by all accounts -- he speaks the truth from personal experience, and with unwavering belief in his words.

It's not an agenda -- it's who Pete is, a young Marshall Mathers without the rage and baggage. No preaching, no altruism, just all-truth-ism.

But it's not all about Pete.

The developing greatness of 8FT lies in its unity, as the orchestra puts its collective talent on full display in a pair of instrumental tracks, "Rusty Trombone" and "Burn Cruise,"

Collectively," trombonist Vinay Bhatt, trumpeter Kai Sandoval, guitarist Tom Barry, bassist Rance Mohammed, drummer Lucas Batten and saxophonist Justin Mayfield don't just go gangbusters; in "Rusty Trombone," they go "Ghostbusters," showcasing a party-friendly, retro sound that's easy to listen to, but hardly easy-listening (who wants that?).

This crew is on the right track, regardless of the song.

Expect Eight Feet Tall to reach new heights and steal the show when they take the stage at the historic House of Blues in Boston Feb. 15.

- Dean Chiungos

“The Mask” is on sale for $6.93 on iTunes and for only $5.99 on BandCamp.com.

Listen to tracks and learn more about the band at YouTube.com/EightFeetTall,Facebook.com/EightFeetTall and EightFeetTall.BandCamp.com.

Follow the band on Twitter @8FeetTallBand.



Dean Chiungos