The Indie Review

By Allie Berg
September 14, 2008

Rating:

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Despite the not-so-serious name, the boys of 2*Sweet and their music is no joke. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, this is a band that shouldn’t be overlooked. Their debut full length, Sleep Without Dreams, is phenomenal. If their was a category of music called, “dance-theatrical, more than using just 3 power chords, pop punk”, these guys would dominate.

 
The first track, Dreamcatcher, really sets the tone for the rest of the album. With its theatrical musical and vocal introduction, it provides the listener to get ready for a “musical play”. The album consists of upbeat, fun poppy songs along with darker, deep tracks. While some tracks have more theatrical music than vocals, and vice verse, each track somehow finds a perfect balance.

 
While all music is emotional, I wouldn’t necessarily lump 2*Sweet into the category of “emo”. The song, Miss You, is a beautiful track, musically and lyrically, heartfelt, but not depressing. The singer has a distinct voice and his passion about music is apparent through the lyrics and delivery.

My favorite track on the entire album by far is Rested Eyes Tell No Lie. The album is limited in “filler” tracks with all of the songs having hit potential. Rested Eyes Tell No Lie is incredibly catchy and has all of the ingredients to become a radio favorite. This song single handedly will give Panic! At the Disco fans a new favorite artist.

 
The combination of musical talent and dramatic effect make these guys stand out among others. If 2*Sweet’s live performance is only half as good as Sleep Without Dreams, these guys are worth checking out.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Rested Eyes Tell No Lies”

“Miss You”

“Bury Me in the Lovers Graveyard”

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The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
July 22, 2008

Artist: Damiera
Album: Quiet Mouth Loud Hands
Label: Equal Vision
Rating:

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After releasing their self produced and much praised debut M(US)IC on Equal Vision Records, Damiera was plagued with trying to stay afloat as a band.  After an extensive tour to support their debut, Damiera announced in April of 2007 that they were on haitus.  A phrase that spells out the impending doom of a band.

However, vocalist David Raymond couldn’t let the project die, and in June of 2007 it was announced that the band had re-formed around David.  Making up the new Damiera was guitarist Steve Downs, drummer Josh Sparks, and bassist Jayson Dezuzio (who had produced M(US)IC and worked with bands such as Coheed and Cambria and My Chemical Romance.  It was later announced that they would jump back into the studio to start work on the much anticipated follow up album, Quiet Mouth Loud Hands.

While there are some similarities to M(US)IC , Quiet Mouth Loud Hands is a different animal than the debut.  Of course this is expected due to a flood of new creativity that co-incides with an new line up like this.  The album mildly suffers with an identity crisis.  Think Experimental Rock meets Paula Abdul or Maroon 5.  I had a puzzled “Oh no, they didn’t . . .” look on my face a couple times during my first listen.  Although, once past the initial shock, I think the sprinkling of Pop elements add to the appeal of Quiet Mouth Loud Hands. 

Damiera have offered up a strong release with Quiet Mouth Loud Hands.  Was it a little over-hyped? Yes.  Did it hold up to expectations? Mostly.  I think with the member issues, Damiera is commended for putting out such a strong album.  There are a few wrinkles that need to be ironed out with Quiet Mouth Loud Hands  (David’s vocals are not on par with the vocals on M(US)IC and the aformentioned minor identity crisis) , but over all this is a respected release. 

While not perfect, Quiet Mouth Loud Hands is a great transitional album and I’m sure the next effort has the potential to be even stronger. 

Stand Out Tracks:

“Devices”

“The Flood”

“A Tree and it’s Fruit”

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The Indie Review
By Allie Berg
July 8, 2008

Artist: Quincy Mumford
Album: Quincy Mumford
Label: Unsigned

Jack Johnson might lose some sleep after listening to Quincy Mumford’s Self-Titled debut album. This sixteen year old is going to give a few singer/songwriters a run for their money. While he’s not even old enough to drive legally in New Jersey, he does have the talent to drive young girls and boys crazy for him. Whether it be at a coffee shop, a sold out venue, or a street corner in New York, Quincy has the ability to attract all ages with his voice and guitar. The music on this album is phenomenal.

It is also refreshing to hear that lyrics are also age appropriate. So many child stars perform songs that were not written by them and include topics way too mature for them to be singing about. Themes of sex and drugs are not a part of this album, but that doesn’t mean Quincy’s lyrics are babyish or immature. In fact, he proves that sex and drugs don’t need to be included in an album to be a success. It is obvious to see that Quincy Mumford has a good head on his shoulders. With themes such as being grateful and the feeling of being home, the first track, My Town, discusses how nothing compares to where you are from.

Well I went down the road to see my Uncle Sal // He said, “Son, I’m moving straight out of town” // And he said, “Do you want to come with me? // I said, No, Sir, I’m gonna stand right where I be.

This is my town and I’ll never leave // This is my favorite place can’t you see? // This is where I was born and bread // This is where my first words were sad.

Aside from his natural talent on guitar, his voice is nearly flawless. This debut self-titled album from Quincy Mumford is a surefire summer favorite and should be the soundtrack to many parties and barbeques. This sixteen year old is going to do big things. And who knows what will come first, a worldwide tour or prom?

Stand Out Tracks:

My Town
Grateful
Dock on a Bay

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The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
June 28, 2008

Artist: Sigur Ros
Album: Med sud I eyrum vid spilum endalaust
Label: XL Recordings
Rating:

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Sigur Ros is probably one of the most unconventional and innovative bands working today. Rather than being driven by styles and trends, Sigur Ros is a true example of true art and music colliding. Med sud I eyrum vid spilum endalaust (translated: “With a Buzz in Our Ears We Play Endlessly”) is the culmonation of Sigur Ros‘ amazing previous work, taking their sound to more of a well rounded blend of beautiful, slow and haunting melodies combined with a more organic lively sound.

It seems Sigur Ros have embraced more of an organic sound lately. First with the release of Sigur Ros‘ “Rock” album Takk, then with their DVD release Heima and the subsiquent CD release of B-Sides and live studio versions of some of their favorite songs. Med sud I eyrum vid spilum endalaust takes the best moments from these albums and is Sigur Ros‘ strongest album to date.

As an album as a whole, there is a lot more variety to work with here. Gobbligook can be justified as Sigur Ros‘ first successful single and stands alone as a great song. The rest of the album is as innovative with impeccable production; crisp and organic, with less distortion and echo than the previous albums. Adding to the layers of each song are various levels of strings and piano.

Easily the most accessible Sigur Ros album, Med sud I eyrum vid spilum endalaust still maintains the integrity that comes with all Sigur Ros albums. Extremely artistic and not guided by a corporate label, Sigur Ros exists to create works of art with each album. With Med sud I eyrum vid spilum endalaust, Sigur Ros have added yet another masterpiece.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Gobbligook
“Inní mér syngur vitleysingur”
“Vid spilum endalaust”

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The Indie Review
By Allie Berg
June 24, 2008

Artist: Colors in the Air
Album: On the Inside
Label: Leakmob Records

Rating:

From the cold temperatures of Buffalo, New York comes a band who is really heating things up. Colors in the Air is a band certainly on the rise. What is different about this band from others you might ask? Genuine talent. These guys aren’t just playing the same three chords over and over again. The musical introductions and perfectly planned harmonies are simply on point.

Instead of completely filling the songs with lyrics, Colors in the Air focuses more on the power of actual music and showcasing their talent on their debut album On the Inside. In the first track; Maybe Tonight, it takes a small while for lyrics to kick in, but when they do, they come in at exactly the right time. Singer, Brian Miller sounds as if he has been doing this for years and years and has phenomenal vocal ability. At times it reminds me a little bit of Adam Levine (Maroon 5) and Chris Martin (Coldplay). Although it is the singer that stands out to me, each band member plays a crucial role in the outcome of On the Inside.

On the Inside as a whole is extremely well put together and sounds extremely professional. These guys are trying to bring back what music should sound like. The pop punk trend has gone on for way too long and its refreshing to see a new band straying away from that trend. If you like music, and talent, Colors in the Air will be touring this summer so give them a listen and check them out live!

Stand Out Tracks:

“Maybe Tonight”
“Echoes”
“Raindrops”

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The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
June 24, 2008

Artist: Socratic
Album: Spread the Rumors
Label: Drive Thru Records
Rating:

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From my experience, there are 2 types of bands putting out music today.  First, are the bands who are creating music to push boundaries and further their artistic, moral or political expression creatively.  On the other hand, are bands who are writing for the status quo to build fans and are comfortable writing generic and accessible music.  While their music doesn’t totally suck, they’re not doing anything exciting or new either.

Socratic, with their newest release Spread the Rumors is a band that reminds me of that second example of bands.  Here we have sugar soaked, pop infused indie rock.  Just enough depth below the surface to rise above The Jonas Brothers, but barely.  There is nothing new here that demands our attention.  You’ve heard one band like this, you’ve heard them all.

The songs here are fun and poppy.  I can see why the average 13 year old girl would love these guys.  And I was on board with accepting Socratic for what they were until I heard the song Long Distance Calls.  It shares the exact melody in the chorus as the chorus of Boy in a Magazine.  Seriously, how did this slip by the producer? Listen to the songs back to back, your jaw will hit the floor.  This is the kind of laziness that comes through the album as a whole and while not a total piece of crap, I can’t enthusiastically recommend Spread the Rumors to anyone.

With lackluster vocals, poor production value and boring, predictable songwriting, Socratic have failed to impress with their highly anticipated album Spread the Rumors.  With the amount of hype surrounding Socratic, I expected more.  However, what we were given was a major disappointment.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Devices”

“The Flood”

“A Tree and it’s Fruit”

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The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
June 16, 2008

Artist: We Are The Arsenal
Album: The Trees E.P.
Label: Unsigned
Rating:

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Orange County, CA has the same problem most Southern Calfornia cities have: an over saturation of bands trying to get their voice heard. Rising above the ever increasing Scene bands, We Are The Arsenal attempt to showcase that they not only have style, but originality and substance as well. With The Trees E.P., We Are The Arsenal give us melodic rock and roll with a modern spin and connect 5 songs together in a mini-concept album that leaves us wanting a bit more.

My only problem with The Trees E.P. is that it’s not a full length. EPs are always tricky. There are 3 very good tracks here, with 2 mediocre offerings. As a whole, though, We Are The Arsenal show great depth in their lyrics and song writing. We Are The Arsenal are not your average predictable rock band, and show us there’s more beneath the surface.

The Trees E.P. is a great teaser for what we can expect for future We Are The Arsenal releases. This is strong EP that even in its shortcomings, is head and shoulders above most everything else the genre has offered us lately.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Sound the Alarms”

“So Long”

“Skeletons

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The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
June 15, 2008

Artist: Foals
Album: Antidotes
Label: Sub Pop
Rating:

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With their home base in Oxford, England, Foals have no trouble with being different. With their quirky blend of dance, rock, and punk Foals remain unclassifiable. With their Sub Pop release, Antidotes, Foals are quick to prove that you don’t have to stick to formula or genres to gain following. They let the music do that for them.

Antidotes is one of the most enjoyable discoveries I’ve had in music so far this year. Songs laden with disco dance beats, yet with an indie-rock sensibility, Foals are one of the most interesting bands out right now. The opening song The French Open blends seamlessly into one of my favorite tracks Cassius, I originally thought it was all one song. Antidotes takes you on a journey and doesn’t let you out of the world it creates until the last track is over.

One of the of the biggest advantages that Foals have over comparable artists (Cobra Starship, Men Women and Children, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah) is the production. So many dance influenced rock acts rely too heavily on synth or reverb. Also, many indie/garage rock bands don’t give enough thought to their production, making their albums sounding too raw. Foals have struck production gold with Antidotes and have found the perfect balance of sound for what their pulling off here.

Ditching any formula that a lot of band rely on, Foals have given us a fun and grounded album that deserves multiple revisits. Innovative yet accessible, Antidotes is a memorable album that is sure to place Foals into our collective conscience.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Cassius”

“Red Socks Pugie”

“Electric Bloom”

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The Indie Review

By Sarah Frank
June 15, 2008

Artist: Barcelona
Album: Absolutes
Label: Unsigned
Rating:

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“It’s about time” is right for up-and-coming band Barcelona. Mostly from the Seattle area, Barcelona’s tear-jerking, passion-driven lyrics will fill your heart, break it, and patch it up again in all of two minutes.

Stand Out Tracks:

“It’s About Time”

“Numb”

“Response”

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The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
June 14, 2008

Artist: No Use For A Name
Album: The Feel Good Record of the Year
Label: Fat Wreck Chords

Rating:

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No Use For A Name are one of the few major contributors to the 90s punk rock scene still churning out records and touring. With their 9th studio album, The Feel Good Record of the Year, No Use For A Name are showing no signs of slowing down and show us that consistancy can be a good thing. You won’t find any outrageous experimentation or anyone trying to re-define the band. Although there are moments where NUFAN dabble in some mellower territory, The Feel Good Record of the Year is a solid album that gives us a little more diversity, without sacrificing everything we love about NUFAN.

The Feel Good Record of the Year shows NUFAN dabbling in the more mellow side of things, which comes out as a mixed bag and occasionally stalls the momentum of the album. While I enjoy this direction, I feel the album could have gone without the song Kill the Rich which just doesn’t feel like a NUFAN song. Also, being the second to last song, kills the momentum of the album as a whole. That being said, Sleeping Between Trucks is a heartfelt and honest song about the cost of touring; and Ontario offers a nice quiet moment to the album.

No Use For A Name take all the elements that have worked for them throughout their career and molded a satisfying album. Opening with the song Biggest Lie, NUFAN showcase the aggression of earlier albums crossed with the melodies of recent albums. Like most NUFAN albums, it’s hard to single out the great songs on the album. There are so many memorable moments, with each song offering something interesting.

The Feel Good Record of the Year is a great album and holds up along side NUFAN’s impressive career. While some moments work better than others, it’s great to see No Use For A Name branching out and trying new things. Overall, after not hearing anything new from NUFAN for 3 years, The Feel Good Record of the Year is greeted by this reviewer with an enthusiastic “welcome back” and with no signs of slowing down any time soon, I’m looking forward to the next effort already.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Biggest Lie”

“I Want to be Wrong”

“Night of the Living Living”

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