ION INDIE MAGAZINE August 2014, Volume 3 | Page 41

song structure and subject matter. Music for us is a piece of the big picture. It lets us express ourselves in a way outside of pure intellectual discussion.” It was a privilege to see one of their performances last month. The Living Wills blew me away with their integration of catchy lyrics, composition, energetic delivery, and a variation of original songs. They played a mix of Pop, Rock, and Folk music. Devin, age 24, sings lead, plays piano, synthesizer and ukulele. The older brother, Connor, who is 26, rocks the drums, percussion, vocals and both compose lyrics for the band. Inspired by the likes of MILES DAVIS, CAROLE KING, KURT COBAIN and EMINEM, I would equate their sound to a mash-up of FREDDY MERCURY or ADAM LEVINE, meet U2 and DAVE MATTHEWS. This songwriting duo has a huge underground following, and they have played some of the more popular clubs and bars in the state, but are striving for something more. The ultimate goal, according to Devin Wills, is to “tour, travel the world, and share their love and appreciation for music with people everywhere”. The Living Wills first EP is a complexity of love, loss, and good time music. According to Connor Wills, “’Do Not Resuscitate’ was written about relationships that we don’t want to be pulled back in to—inspired by the transformations that free us from the past. ‘I’m Thinking Maybe’ is about embracing the future. It’s optimistic and fun. It’s a reminder that there are always new relationships to be made out there.” These songs were recorded by Devin Wills; lead vocals, piano and synthesizer, Connor Wills performs all percussion and backing vocals, with RYAN THRUSH on bass, and then there’s DOUG on guitar. There is nothing elemental about the precision and musical styling of these young men. While their favorite place to play may be in a basement with a keg and a crowd, they are always writing new material and plan to release another CD in September 2014. Watching the magic happen on stage is even better than listening to their recorded material. These brothers struck a chord with this music lover and I believe that Devin and Connor are willing to knock on as many doors as it takes to help them achieve their goals. http://www.thelivingwillsandthenightmares.com/ http://www.reverbnation.com/thelivingwills https://www.facebook.com/thelivingwills