MusicTree alumni and rock superstars-to-be, Mize and the Drive dropped off a copy of Irene shortly after their set on opening night of the festival. Based out of Murfreesboro, Tennessee – Mize and the Drive are a rock group heavily influced by bands such as Dave Matthews Band, Wilco and the Greatful Dead. Though influenced by older bands Mize has a refreshingly unique feel to their sound.

Irene leads off strong with Drive Me Home which begs in the later stages of the song “what are you waiting for “. The CD is solid all the way through but another noteable track is Antietam Road, a lengthy yet great song! Every band needs their “Freebird” (or “Stairway to Heaven”, if you prefer).

Listen closely to the lyrics and you will catch clues to the day jobs the band members hold – with historical and academic references throughout.

Irene is 10 songs deep and good from start to finish. Mize and the Drive are as good live as they are on CD. If you have the chance catch them around the Middle Tennessee area, then do it! And do it often.

Favorite track – drive me home

Who I would Pandora with – Dave Matthews Band, Allman Brothers, Wilco