Motep's Groove2002Independent

Motep's Groove - 2002 - Independent

Written by Calvin Daniels

Motep's Groove is a trio from Saskatoon with a ceiling that seems nearly limitless as you listen to their recently released self-titled effort.

This group is all about spotlighting the talents of lead singer and guitarist Kyle Riabko, and believe me, his talents are immense. What brings that into even sharper focus is the fact Riabko is still years away from being able to order a drink in the bars he plays for. At 14, this kid plays his guitar with amazing polish, and an enthusiasm which is truly entertaining.

Motep's Groove's latest CD shows a few of the growing pains one might expect from a 14-year-old performer, but comes over as an effort showing so much potential one can't help but be impressed.

Riabko - who is joined by a pair of 18-year-olds, Roger Mercier and Ryan Boldt - says the new recording is a major step for his young career as each of the songs was written by him. While he said the music is both blues and rock-influenced, he adds, "We've always been concentrating on the original songs."

That's another big plus for Motep's Groove. As young musicians, it would have been easy to rely on well-known cover songs to launch a career, but they have shown the conviction to do this CD on their own terms. When asked to analyze the CD, Riabko again focuses on the music.

"My writing skills are becoming a lot more mature," he says. "This is probably our most popular work."

Although Riabko said the CD is likely to fit into the pop rock genre, the music is deeper.

"There's still tons of blues influence," he says, adding "We're not really big fans of categorizing music. There is just good music, and there is bad music. Hopefully, it (the new CD) falls under the good music."

Listen to the CD, take in a concert and you soon understand why in some circles, Riabko and his guitar have been compared to another Saskatchewan player who has emerged to carve out a stellar career - Colin James.

Riabko says those are big shoes, but he appreciates that others look at him in that light. "Definitely, those kind of things are a huge compliment."

At the same time, having performers such as James, the Jordan Cook Band and Wide Mouth Mason emerging from the province helps a young band realize they can make it.

"When you see the successes of all the people who played in the same clubs you're playing in, it gives you hope," said Riabko.

While other bands may have laid out the route to success from Saskatchewan, it will be Riabko's guitar and attitude which allow Motep's Groove to follow the map.

The CD, like the CD release concert, starts with the song Trouble, which will likely be marked as the most popular cut on the CD. However, this effort stays solid through all 10 cuts. There may not be the next rock-blues anthem here, but one gets the feeling as Riabko matures and adds more life experiences to the songwriting process, anything may be possible. I'd suggest people grab this CD, it may well be the first step toward a stand out career.

Copyright 2002. Review by Calvin Daniels.

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