The New Frontiers: Mending

The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
March 8, 2008

Artist: The New Frontiers
Album: Mending
Label: The Militia Group
Rating:

2008 is starting to become a year to be remembered. There have been a handful of great releases already and The Militia Group have released their first MUST HAVE of 2008 with The New Frontiers‘ debut, Mending. This is uplifting Alt Country inspired album that isn’t afraid to borrow the best parts of other Rock sub-genres. This blend makes for an original yet familiar sound, with straight forward Country tinged Rock songs (Black Lung), to beautiful, laid back melodies (The Day You Fell Apart, Mirrors), even a genuinely honest acoustic number (Spirit and Skin).

A lot is to be said about the vocals as well. Nathan Pettijohn’s soothing vocals are near perfect, and some of the best I’ve heard this year. Complimenting Nathan’s incredible vocals are amazing harmonies sung by the other members of the band. This especially done well on the song Mirrors. It sounds like everyone in the band contributed to these harmonies and they are the most beautiful harmonies I’ve heard in a song in the past few years. In fact, the album’s high point comes a little too early with Mirrors, easily the best song on the album. That’s a minor gripe. Because the album is so good, you almost want to pick it apart to see if there are any flaws at all. You’re going to have to get a microscope out, because The New Frontiers have a near-perfect album with Mending.

With memorable songs and honest lyrics, The New Frontiers have given us an inspirational and unforgettable album with Mending. Get ready to wear out your CD player or iPod, you won’t want to listen to anything else for a while.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Mirrors”

“Strangers”

“Black Lung”