Sunday, November 4, 2007
Retroactive Reviews Number 4: Mae
You can expect a new review, tomorrow, Monday, of the latest album from Mae. “Singularity” is their third full-length release, not counting their b-sides release following “Destination: Beautiful.” I was a fan of theirs years ago after first hearing “Embers and Envelopes” on the “Take Action Tour 4” sampler. So, will their latest a worthwhile release? Will it bring me back into the fold? Or will I be disappointed? Check back soon for the review!
Saturday, November 3, 2007
Envy On The Coast - Lucy Gray
Band: Envy On The Coast
Album: Lucy Gray
Release Date: August 7, 2007
Label: Photo Finish Records
Three Word Review: Earnest, Fragmented, Promising
Favorite Track: “Vultures”
Why? There is a lot to like about this track. The opening bass line (which, thankfully, recurs), the varied vocal styles, duo vocals which showcase Sal’s vocals, and the song’s air of urgency. The opening track “Sugar Skulls” is up there on this list as well.
Least Favorite Track: “If God Smokes Cheap Cigars”
Why? The song just drops off. With about a minute and a half left the intensity of the song disappears. This actually mirrors the album. This track marks the beginning of the end, after this all the intensity is gone, the remaining songs are all slow and soft. There’s nothing wrong with slow, but they kill the album’s flow in its end. “Lapse” is also fairly bad, it feels incomplete and very rough near its extremely drawn-out end.
My Thoughts:
I like it, I don’t love it. I’m happy to say that I’ve seen Envy On The Coast springboard into [semi-]popularity. They first appeared on my radar when they were the opening act for an acoustic Anthony Green set at the North Star Bar in Philadelphia. They only had their Self-Titled EP then, and it was just on a CD-R, but they were good. I bought it that night, and still love it.
However, there have been some changes made along the way from now until then. “Lucy Gray” is a lot harder during the bulk of the album. It would be a misrepresentation to say that it is hard rock, but the ebb and flow of the EPs intensity is all shoved in the end of this release. However, the musicianship is here. Envy On The Coast has what it takes, and I don’t doubt for one second that they’re going to blowup sometime soon.
“Lucy Gray” is a solid album, but it doesn’t exactly bleed originality, nor does it boast many genre-defining qualities. However, it is very listen-able. Also, what it may lack in originality the band makes up in live performance. They’re full of energy and very genuine.
Why You May or May Not Like It:
One thing to make or break Envy On The Coast for many people is Ryan’s vocal style. It’s not particularly abrasive, but it can be a tipping point. Also, for fans of the EP, some of that sound is lost hear. Some of my favorites by the group are on that album. The likes of “Green Eyes Don’t Lie” and “You Won’t Hear This” are sadly lacking this time through. What is most interesting about “You Won’t Hear This” is that Sal takes over lead vocals. He’s got an excellent voice and it is mostly missing on “Lucy Gray.” I’m not sure why they made the decision to tack all the slow songs on the end of the album, but I think it was a poor choice. If you were looking for more tracks in the same vein of “Suckerpunch” this is a very strong showing in the first half.
Final Say:
As I’ve said, a very solid release. The talent is here, and so is the energy. This young band has lots of potential and it is not lost on this album. They’re touring extensively, as they have been for a while. If they play by you I suggest you make it a point to see them! They’re coming to my college in a week and I’m sure excited to see them. Definitely give this album a listen and lend them some support!
Album: Lucy Gray
Release Date: August 7, 2007
Label: Photo Finish Records
Three Word Review: Earnest, Fragmented, Promising
Favorite Track: “Vultures”
Why? There is a lot to like about this track. The opening bass line (which, thankfully, recurs), the varied vocal styles, duo vocals which showcase Sal’s vocals, and the song’s air of urgency. The opening track “Sugar Skulls” is up there on this list as well.
Least Favorite Track: “If God Smokes Cheap Cigars”
Why? The song just drops off. With about a minute and a half left the intensity of the song disappears. This actually mirrors the album. This track marks the beginning of the end, after this all the intensity is gone, the remaining songs are all slow and soft. There’s nothing wrong with slow, but they kill the album’s flow in its end. “Lapse” is also fairly bad, it feels incomplete and very rough near its extremely drawn-out end.
My Thoughts:
I like it, I don’t love it. I’m happy to say that I’ve seen Envy On The Coast springboard into [semi-]popularity. They first appeared on my radar when they were the opening act for an acoustic Anthony Green set at the North Star Bar in Philadelphia. They only had their Self-Titled EP then, and it was just on a CD-R, but they were good. I bought it that night, and still love it.
However, there have been some changes made along the way from now until then. “Lucy Gray” is a lot harder during the bulk of the album. It would be a misrepresentation to say that it is hard rock, but the ebb and flow of the EPs intensity is all shoved in the end of this release. However, the musicianship is here. Envy On The Coast has what it takes, and I don’t doubt for one second that they’re going to blowup sometime soon.
“Lucy Gray” is a solid album, but it doesn’t exactly bleed originality, nor does it boast many genre-defining qualities. However, it is very listen-able. Also, what it may lack in originality the band makes up in live performance. They’re full of energy and very genuine.
Why You May or May Not Like It:
One thing to make or break Envy On The Coast for many people is Ryan’s vocal style. It’s not particularly abrasive, but it can be a tipping point. Also, for fans of the EP, some of that sound is lost hear. Some of my favorites by the group are on that album. The likes of “Green Eyes Don’t Lie” and “You Won’t Hear This” are sadly lacking this time through. What is most interesting about “You Won’t Hear This” is that Sal takes over lead vocals. He’s got an excellent voice and it is mostly missing on “Lucy Gray.” I’m not sure why they made the decision to tack all the slow songs on the end of the album, but I think it was a poor choice. If you were looking for more tracks in the same vein of “Suckerpunch” this is a very strong showing in the first half.
Final Say:
As I’ve said, a very solid release. The talent is here, and so is the energy. This young band has lots of potential and it is not lost on this album. They’re touring extensively, as they have been for a while. If they play by you I suggest you make it a point to see them! They’re coming to my college in a week and I’m sure excited to see them. Definitely give this album a listen and lend them some support!
Friday, November 2, 2007
Retroactive Reviews 3: Envy On The Coast
The next review in my ongoing series of catchup reviews is “Lucy Gray” from Envy On The Coast. They’re a bit of a personal favorite of mine. I first saw them a few years back as an opening act, but since then they’ve done some growing and I’ve seen them a few more times. They had an awesome set at Bamboozle 2006, while still rather small and this summer they played at Warped Tour. The crowd was a lot larger for that set, and it’s clear to see that they’re heading up up up!
Check back soon (probably tomorrow) for the review!
Check back soon (probably tomorrow) for the review!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Portugal. The Man - Church Mouth
Band: Portugal. The Man
Album: Church Mouth
Release Date: July 24, 2007
Label: Fearless
Three Word Review: Progressive, Blues, Transforming
Favorite Track: “Shade”
Why? It was a tough call. My original favorite track was “Bellies Are Full,” but “Shade” took this title. The vocal highs and lows get me every time. The lyrics are interested and almost twisted. Near the beginning of the track I can’t get enough of the section with the lyrics ‘shouted up to the Northern Territories.’
Least Favorite Track: “Sleeping Sleepers Sleep”
Why? It’s not a bad song, by any means, but it drags the album down in my opinion. It’s awfully slow in comparison to the new sound captured by the album. It has a nice pick up about a minute in, but the loop-sounding beat just doesn’t draw me in.
My Thoughts:
I was a big fan of “Waiter: ‘You Vultures!’” So, I was highly anticipating this album. When it came I was shocked to hear that it sounds very little like it’s predecessors. I’ve often thought that this is almost one half of “Waiter’s” sound, “It’s Complicated Being a Wizard” being the other. “Waiter” was a unique fusion of rock and programed synthesizers. It took a few listens to draw me in, but ultimately I was claimed as a fan. However, “Wizard” never quite got me. The rock sound had disappeared and the programmed beats too over. To me, it’s simple algebra, “Church Mouth” + “Wizard” = “Waiter.”
So, as I’ve said “Church Mouth” is a departure from earlier Portugal. The Man. It almost has a southern rock/blues sound to it, and its clear to see where some of the band’s influences come from. I like to think one of them is a personal favorite of mine, The Allman Brothers Band. You might be wondering, ‘what caused them to drop the heavy synth?’ Well, it was revealed in an interview, this progression came during a tour in Germany. Here, in the ‘States, bands typically have a few opens play first then have an hour set. In Germany P.TM was expected to play the entire show by themselves. No, not just a single one-hour set, but an entire three+ hour show. So, naturally they had to improvise and so this sound emerged as they jammed on stage for hours.
Why You Might Not Like It:
If you’re not a fan of blues rock or whining guitar this might not be your cup of tea. If the main reason you like P.TM was the synth, this might not tickle your fancy. If “It’s Complicated Being a Wizard” is your ideal progressive rock, you might want to steer clear, this time around. However, I say you should give it a try, you might not know if you’ll like it until you try it.
Final Say:
Definitely give it a listen! I’m very happy with what has come out of “Church Mouth.” It’s an interesting and compelling listen. I would like to see a return of the programmed beats in future releases, but I hope this sound sticks around. Also, the band’s art is very unique and interesting, you might want to check that out too. If you like it, I’ve heard they put on a hell of a show, so when they’re playing in town near you go check them out! I know I plan to.
Album: Church Mouth
Release Date: July 24, 2007
Label: Fearless
Three Word Review: Progressive, Blues, Transforming
Favorite Track: “Shade”
Why? It was a tough call. My original favorite track was “Bellies Are Full,” but “Shade” took this title. The vocal highs and lows get me every time. The lyrics are interested and almost twisted. Near the beginning of the track I can’t get enough of the section with the lyrics ‘shouted up to the Northern Territories.’
Least Favorite Track: “Sleeping Sleepers Sleep”
Why? It’s not a bad song, by any means, but it drags the album down in my opinion. It’s awfully slow in comparison to the new sound captured by the album. It has a nice pick up about a minute in, but the loop-sounding beat just doesn’t draw me in.
My Thoughts:
I was a big fan of “Waiter: ‘You Vultures!’” So, I was highly anticipating this album. When it came I was shocked to hear that it sounds very little like it’s predecessors. I’ve often thought that this is almost one half of “Waiter’s” sound, “It’s Complicated Being a Wizard” being the other. “Waiter” was a unique fusion of rock and programed synthesizers. It took a few listens to draw me in, but ultimately I was claimed as a fan. However, “Wizard” never quite got me. The rock sound had disappeared and the programmed beats too over. To me, it’s simple algebra, “Church Mouth” + “Wizard” = “Waiter.”
So, as I’ve said “Church Mouth” is a departure from earlier Portugal. The Man. It almost has a southern rock/blues sound to it, and its clear to see where some of the band’s influences come from. I like to think one of them is a personal favorite of mine, The Allman Brothers Band. You might be wondering, ‘what caused them to drop the heavy synth?’ Well, it was revealed in an interview, this progression came during a tour in Germany. Here, in the ‘States, bands typically have a few opens play first then have an hour set. In Germany P.TM was expected to play the entire show by themselves. No, not just a single one-hour set, but an entire three+ hour show. So, naturally they had to improvise and so this sound emerged as they jammed on stage for hours.
Why You Might Not Like It:
If you’re not a fan of blues rock or whining guitar this might not be your cup of tea. If the main reason you like P.TM was the synth, this might not tickle your fancy. If “It’s Complicated Being a Wizard” is your ideal progressive rock, you might want to steer clear, this time around. However, I say you should give it a try, you might not know if you’ll like it until you try it.
Final Say:
Definitely give it a listen! I’m very happy with what has come out of “Church Mouth.” It’s an interesting and compelling listen. I would like to see a return of the programmed beats in future releases, but I hope this sound sticks around. Also, the band’s art is very unique and interesting, you might want to check that out too. If you like it, I’ve heard they put on a hell of a show, so when they’re playing in town near you go check them out! I know I plan to.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Retroactive Reviews Continue
Since I missed a boatload of releases during my hiatus, I plan to catch up with at least a handful. If I keep it up you could be expecting them a few times a week, or at least a little more often than usual. So, the next review you can expect is “Church Mouth” from Portugal. The Man. It came out in late July and has earned plenty of listens from me since then. So, check back soon to read what I have to say about it!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Boys Night Out - Boys Night Out
Band: Boys Night Out
Album: Boys Night Out
Release Date: June 26, 2007
Label: Ferret Music
Three word review: Uneventful, Rehash, Uninspired
Favorite Track: “Get Your Head Straight”
Why? It’s first. Upon hearing it I didn’t realize how much I disliked this album, yet. It is hard for me to pick out another song that I actually enjoy. If anything it might be “The Heirs of Error” for its mix of screaming, melody, and group chorus.
Least Favorite Track: “Fall for the Drinker”
Why? It is boring, and drudges along too slowly. Connor Lovat-Fraser’s voice is too whiney and the duo vocals with Pasalic aren’t much better. Like most of the songs on this album, I think it should have been cut.
My thoughts:
I’m very underwhelmed with this album. To tell you the truth, it is one of the reasons I stopped reviewing albums here. I had absolutely no desire to even attempt a long write-up on it, so, I never did. It is as if instead of following their own creative ambition, found on “Trainwreck,” they listened only to the criticisms. They took a giant leap backwards with this self-titled. It is as I’ve said, uneventful and a complete rehash of 2003’s “Make Yourself Sick.”
The musical progression found on the 2005 concept release is no where to be seen here. It is a completely forgettable release. While it shares the musical style of it’s older brother, it lacks it’s freshness. What was delightful about “MYS” is worn out and tired here. My musical tastes have changed, a lot, since 2003 and this just isn’t for me. I still enjoy “MYS” but it is largely due to nostalgia. I played the hell out of that album, so it sticks with me as a point in time for my life, this self-titled doesn’t have that advantage.
Why you might like it:
If you are a huge fan of “Make Yourself Sick” and are still waiting for more, this is for you. The musical style is largely the same. Also, if you were a hater of “Trainwreck,” pleading for a return to the ‘norm,’ this may also be for you. If you are still a big fan of the likes of Armor For Sleep or Senses Fail this may also be for you. I warn you however, if you used to love those types of bands but have since moved on to just liking them on a nostalgic basis, you won’t find much here either.
Final Say:
Listen at your leisure, or don’t. If you haven’t heard this yet I’m not advising you to rush out and pick it up, by any means. In fact, unless you’re absolutely dying for “Make Yourself Sick B-Sides,” (and I mean b-sides, as in not good enough to make the original album) I’d say don’t even bother.
Album: Boys Night Out
Release Date: June 26, 2007
Label: Ferret Music
Three word review: Uneventful, Rehash, Uninspired
Favorite Track: “Get Your Head Straight”
Why? It’s first. Upon hearing it I didn’t realize how much I disliked this album, yet. It is hard for me to pick out another song that I actually enjoy. If anything it might be “The Heirs of Error” for its mix of screaming, melody, and group chorus.
Least Favorite Track: “Fall for the Drinker”
Why? It is boring, and drudges along too slowly. Connor Lovat-Fraser’s voice is too whiney and the duo vocals with Pasalic aren’t much better. Like most of the songs on this album, I think it should have been cut.
My thoughts:
I’m very underwhelmed with this album. To tell you the truth, it is one of the reasons I stopped reviewing albums here. I had absolutely no desire to even attempt a long write-up on it, so, I never did. It is as if instead of following their own creative ambition, found on “Trainwreck,” they listened only to the criticisms. They took a giant leap backwards with this self-titled. It is as I’ve said, uneventful and a complete rehash of 2003’s “Make Yourself Sick.”
The musical progression found on the 2005 concept release is no where to be seen here. It is a completely forgettable release. While it shares the musical style of it’s older brother, it lacks it’s freshness. What was delightful about “MYS” is worn out and tired here. My musical tastes have changed, a lot, since 2003 and this just isn’t for me. I still enjoy “MYS” but it is largely due to nostalgia. I played the hell out of that album, so it sticks with me as a point in time for my life, this self-titled doesn’t have that advantage.
Why you might like it:
If you are a huge fan of “Make Yourself Sick” and are still waiting for more, this is for you. The musical style is largely the same. Also, if you were a hater of “Trainwreck,” pleading for a return to the ‘norm,’ this may also be for you. If you are still a big fan of the likes of Armor For Sleep or Senses Fail this may also be for you. I warn you however, if you used to love those types of bands but have since moved on to just liking them on a nostalgic basis, you won’t find much here either.
Final Say:
Listen at your leisure, or don’t. If you haven’t heard this yet I’m not advising you to rush out and pick it up, by any means. In fact, unless you’re absolutely dying for “Make Yourself Sick B-Sides,” (and I mean b-sides, as in not good enough to make the original album) I’d say don’t even bother.
Still Alive, Barely Kicking
I’m not dead, I just got lazy, and you probably stopped checking for updates. In fact, I’m probably writing this for no one!
However, I’m making a triumphant return with results that are most likely going to revel in mediocrity. Inspired by the riveting 3 word review over at Taciturn (there’s still some activity over there, too), I’m bringing back Audiosyncratic in a short, yet wonderfully digestible format. And I’ll be picking up right where I left off! Which means that for now you can expect reviews from albums you’ve heard months ago.
So, you can expect (soon) an abbreviated review of the latest (okay months and months old, now) and not-quite-greatest from Boys Night Out. Also, to reduce the maid vibe around here teaser posts (like this one) will be tagged as 'teaser.' Creative ehh? Well, check back soon!
However, I’m making a triumphant return with results that are most likely going to revel in mediocrity. Inspired by the riveting 3 word review over at Taciturn (there’s still some activity over there, too), I’m bringing back Audiosyncratic in a short, yet wonderfully digestible format. And I’ll be picking up right where I left off! Which means that for now you can expect reviews from albums you’ve heard months ago.
So, you can expect (soon) an abbreviated review of the latest (okay months and months old, now) and not-quite-greatest from Boys Night Out. Also, to reduce the maid vibe around here teaser posts (like this one) will be tagged as 'teaser.' Creative ehh? Well, check back soon!
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