DetroitBuzz.com has put together a review for each of the headliners for this weekend's double CD Release Party, FUNKcanROCK FEST, at the Masonic Temple at 7:00pm.

My Machine - Overlooked EP

The four piece band from Detroit, My Machine puts forth straight ahead rock, with a few little funky twists in their eight track “Overlooked” EP. The album mixes solid riffs with a strong bass line, to create an album with some promising tracks.

The band seems destined for some airplay on WRIF, and tailor made for rock radio play. The material on “Overlooked” shows an acoustic flavor, with the modern rock style of the band.

The album goes into the straight ahead, Seether/Crossfade style rock with such tracks as “Holy Roller”, and “Melt”; both of which use the quiet verse / loud chorus routine, and do fine with it. But it seemed like the band is somewhat bored with that sound from time to time.

Where the band seems to do better are on tracks such s “D.I.G.”, and the acoustic number “Mix It Up”. Lead singer Jason Harper seems to infuse an Incubus-esque vocal style in these songs. Along with some fine bass work from Pete Dunn, it seems that My Machine should go delve more into this style, versus some of the earlier, more somber tracks. Fortunately for My Machine, “Pimp Juice” is not the Nelly song, and it sounds a hell of a lot better than that song.

My Machine works some kinks out of their system, and gives themselves a chance with “Overlooked”. It is an enjoyable listen, and we’re hoping the band shows more of their “Pimp Juice” style in the future.

Hot Sauce - Just a Taste EP

The funk-rock ensemble from Detroit just wants you to get down and have a good time with their six song EP, “Just A Taste”. Coming off more like the Roots, than perhaps Fishbone, the eight member band comes off with a smooth, mellow vibe that does show potential.

The band does definitely let their jazz influences on the record, with easy flowing tracks, such as “Last Chance”. Some of the tracks take more of a smooth jazz/R&B vibe, and provide a sound not really heard much these days. Lead singer Dyrel Johnson provides a mellow voice that compliments the music well. He does not try to overpower the music with his lyrics, and provides good tracks to either dance to, or just chill to as well.

The fifth song, “It’s The Love” seems like it would be a good fit at light R&B style stations; while “Daydream”, provides a nice piano line over the drums. It is interesting to see that the band, with members in high school and in college, seem to have a firm base in their sound at such a young age. They also allow some sax and trumpet sounds on the album, which shows off their jazz influences.

Sometimes, when you don’t feel like getting loud and crazy, “Just A Taste” provides a smooth alternative.