After the release of its 2016 EP “Nightmares and Daydreams,” featuring catchy grooves such as the track “Daydreamer” and the soulful and spacey “Tales,” Long Island’s own MJT is set to make its return on Feb. 25 with its EP, “The World is a Broken Toy.”
MJT, a trio made up of Godfrey brothers Matt, David and JoJo, combines elements of hard rock and soul music that provide a unique alternative vibe.
The booming intro “Revolution” kicks off “The World is a Broken Toy” in a grand fashion, with elements of pounding rock over the tasteful organ effects of keyboardist Matt, paired with guitars and a groovy verse. This song makes the listener want to get up and dance one minute then sit in their chair nodding their head the next. “Revolution” starts off the EP with power and versatility, to lead into the following song, “Something Like Us.”
A more straightforward rock-and-roll tune, “Something Like Us” provides a mid-tempo vibe with bursts of pounding rhythms. Just when you think it’s finished, the song picks up again and ends with a surprising reprise.
The middle track,“Broken Toys,” starts with an eerie tone, like a jack-in-the-box about to pop out in a room full of broken toys. This speaks to MJT’s excellent use of musical structure to set the tone for the title and vibe of the track. JoJo’s drums hit you over the head with force, resolving into a spacey verse with David’s soulful singing that allows for a moment of relaxation. A bluesy guitar solo takes out the song and leads into the first of the EP’s two smoother songs.
“Tonight” begins as a ballad with a sense of heartbreak in the vocals. The theme, the desire for love, is conveyed through the lyrics, along with David’s passion-filled voice carrying the theme beautifully. Drums provide vigor behind the song while the vocal melody adds fluidity to this relaxing, head-nodder track.
“The World is a Broken Toy” ends on a calming note with the ballad “Those Were The Days.” David’s vocals complement his clean guitar and delay effects. With clean waves of soft melody and passionate singing, this track allows for a pleasant conclusion to the EP.
The uniqueness and soul-driven alternative rock style of MJT make the group worth the listen. If you are looking for something catchy yet different, be on the lookout for “The World is a Broken Toy” on Feb. 25.