By combining his Louisiana upbringing with his current New York City residency, Alex Chappo has formed the sound of Chappo on its debut album, Media Machine. The skeleton of the album has a very clean, rock feel to it, but it’s the addition of funk and hip-hop to that sound that makes it go.

The simple chord structure and voice reminiscent of Neil Young and John Fogerty give the album a traditional rock sound that is not often heard today. Unfortunately, that sound is somewhat bland; coupling it with funk and hip-hop adds enough energy to make the record move. Drummer Simon Lott does a good job to bring New Orleans funk to the sound without making this just another funk record. That energy seems to take over Chappo’s vocals, giving him powerful shouts, great attitude, humor and lyrical speed.

This is a solid debut that scratches the surface of Chappo’s unique sound, and if he can better sharpen the balance between rock, funk and hip-hop, Chappo should have success in the future.