Artist proves the Midwest can rock
Von Zimmer’s first album, “Freddie’s Extra Teeth,” is a great listen for rock fans who are looking for songs with deep lyrics.
February 23, 2016
“Some people get a rush of endorphins when running which is called a runner’s high,” rock artist Von Zimmer said. “I’ve never experienced it while running, but I do get a rush from writing songs. It’s fun for me.”
Von Zimmer is a young and talented artist who has an old school rock influence that is more remarkably familiar than any current rock & roll artist. His album, consisting of 10 well-written songs, expresses his outlook on his life and his various experiences.
Since a young age, music has always been a great influence in Zimmer’s life. He grew up in South Dakota, listening to artists such as the Beach Boys and trying to find a deeper meaning in songs.
He started writing songs in his early teens, which eventually lead up to the creation of his first album.
I do get a rush from writing songs. It’s fun for me.
— Von Zimmer
The album, “Freddie’s Extra Teeth,” was created during a lengthy process throughout 2014 and 2015. “I’m not really concerned about the speed of the process as long as it turns out the way that I want,” Zimmer said.
“Freddie’s Extra Teeth” showcases an assortment of diverse songs that feature Zimmer’s unique twist on rock music. He sets a calm, soft-rock mood for the entire album.
“The End of the World” starts the album with steady electric guitar and the quiet and raspy voice of Zimmer. The lyrics reveal the utter chaos that describes the end of the world. The chorus of the track gives a brief look into the views of society that Zimmer rebels against with his music. This first song truly sets the tone for the entire album.
“Echo,” the second track on the album, starts with a catchy and lighter guitar and drum solo until Zimmer comes in with the lyrics. He brings different people’s stories into the song and expresses that different perspectives change everything.
“Where Were You” is a slower but lively song with steady drums and guitar. The lyrics are about a flaky girl who is inconsistent and never there for him. Zimmer exhibits his dreary mood throughout this song with a slower tempo and heavy lyrics.
“The Road to Nod” is a memorable song that feels more serene than the rest of the album. Its story involves the struggles of a worker who is reaching his breaking point with his boss.
Although there is a clear story in his songs, Zimmer’s years of trying to find a deeper meaning in lyrics has rubbed off in his writing style.
“Your Song” is an upbeat track that feels strangely recognizable as it incorporates some of the same chords as the album’s first song. The lyrics convey Zimmer’s devotion to a girl, making this song more heartfelt than the rest.
The track takes a different turn at the chorus, which ultimately helps tie the album together with it’s rustic rock theme.
Zimmer is unquestionably a lyricist. The effort he puts into every word is truly remarkable. “It probably took about 50 songs before I wrote something decent,” Zimmer said. His dedication to the album is apparent throughout each of his songs.
Zimmer is a great listen for anyone who likes to interpret lyrics and enjoy slow rock songs. The quality in his distinctly realistic lyrics make him a noteworthy and unique artist. Zimmer is not only a talented musician, but an almost poetic writer who will do incredible musical things in the future.
