We Are Serenades - "Criminal Heaven"

Artist: We Are Serenades
Album: Criminal Heaven
Label: Cherrytree/Interscope
Release Date: April 17^th, 2012
Review by: Sean Kayden

I’ve always been a fan of the Swedish indie-pop band, Shout Out Louds. So when I heard frontman Adam Olenius was teaming up with Markus Krunegard form the band Laakso to form a side-project, I expressed much interest. The duo has created the music entity, We Are Serenades. Both artists share vocal duties, which give the debut record, “Criminal Heaven” a great balance. While these Sweden natives already have a lot of experience as musicians, it was safe to remain hopeful this new project would be solid. For all intents and purposes, “Criminal Heaven” is pure springtime bliss, but even within spring, the forecast isn’t always consistent with utter beauty.

We Are Serenades hone their joyful sound to the utmost degree. However, the band is at their finest when they’re not slowing down the tempo into boring lullabies. “Birds,” the second track off the album, is a downright terrific pop tune. With lush melodies, a mellifluous sound arrangement, and harmonious vocals, “Birds” is not only the best song off the album, but one of the better pop songs of 2012. “Come Home,” which reminds me the most of Shout Out Louds, has this 80s background flair with a touch of twangy guitar riffs that simultaneously and surprisingly work well together. “Oceans,” another lasting gem, is buoyant and uplifting. We Are Serenades often do sound absolutely great. Despite some tremendous songs presented here, the mishaps do occur. “Daydreaming” is a slog that is quite monotonous. To give it some credit, it does display a very soft side to We Are Serenades, but it interrupts the record’s lively tempo. The title track is another one that just sucks the life out of not the only album, but the listener. I understand the allure to make songs like this because they try to touch your heart, but unfortunately they’re just coming off maudlin and uninspiring. “Weapons” is a song that inexplicably feels out of place, but it’s quirky and tons of fun. It comes as a surprise and while it may not feel an authentic part to the record, it stands alone as a true dark horse type of song.

All in all, the debut is a satisfying listen in spite of some less-than-stellar tracks. Olenius and Krunegard’s vocals are often in unison and the blending of their two voices makes for a truly distinctive vocal resonance all itself. “Criminal Heaven” is not life changing, but an exceedingly fine pop record. Once again, under the radar pop rock is still better than what the mainstream affair has to offer. “Criminal Heaven” may not spin heads or rock the boat too much, but its existence is worth looking into if you’re feeling a little gloomy during these days.

Key Tracks: “Birds”, “Come Home”, “Oceans”
Grade: 7.0 out of 10

Published by Mountain Views News on April 28th, 2012
http://mtnviewsnews.com/v06/htm/n17/p09.htm

Eight and a Half - "Self-Titled"

Artist: Eight and A Half
Album: Eight and A Half
Label: Arts and Crafts
Release Date: April 10^th, 2012
Review by: Sean Kayden 

Toronto indie label Arts & Crafts, known for their eclectic roster of bands, including supergroup Broken Social Scene, are expanding their repertoire for 2012. With B.S.S. on an indefinite hiatus, the label is on the lookout for the next big indie act. The latest addition to their team is Eight and A Half—a three-piece group comprised of Dave Hamelin and Liam O'Neil, former members from the out of commission group, The Stills (Arts & Crafts alumni) and Justin Peroff, the drummer for Broken Social Scene. This isn’t BSS or The Stills revisited, in spite of some influences to be on display. Eight and A Half focuses more on synthesizers and samplers as a vital integration in their somewhat minimalistic approach. The amalgamation of eerie sounds, dark ambience, and rich textures are deeply rooted in the band’s experimental resonance.

Liam O’Neil, the secondary vocalist when a member of The Stills takes on full responsibilities as the primary singer. The transition seems effortless while O’Neil exhibits a crooning method as he carefully and expressively sings. On the second track of Eight and A Half’s self-titled debut, “Scissors,” O’Neil’s singing is a lull—soothing, pacifying, and warm. When he despondently speaks the words “Hold me like an old friend, Hold me like an omen,” you can sense the heartbreak and lonesomeness in his voice. “Scissors” is the slowest song off the record, but clearly one of the band’s stronger tracks. The recent single, “Go Ego,” is a tight, richly layered, synth-heavy tune that describes someone who had it all, but everything is now lost. The album remains faithful to the members’ previous work, however, it’s also cementing a name for the new band as they expand on their earlier sounds. “Took A Trip To India” is the best song Eight and A Half has developed. The poppy gem is smooth, beautifully arranged, and simply awesome.  The chorus of “Two Points” takes a cue from Broken Social Scene, but even with the comparison, this is wholly an Eight and A Half song from top to bottom.

The guys claim this is no side project, but a full fledge band. If that’s the case, Arts and Crafts may have another big player on their lineup. The Canadian group’s first outing is short-lived however, clocking in at just over 35 minutes over the span of ten tracks. The first and last tracks are more like an intro and outro leaving the listener with eight complete songs. The record is pretty impressive regardless of its brief length. Often times, debut albums feel a bit green, but Eight and A Half show no signs of that. In fact, their sound is polished, refined, and complete. Given the pedigree behind the project and how I’m already an avid fan of the members’ earlier work, it really comes as no surprise that the record is as good as it is. While the direction in sound is different, Eight and A Half are a worthy substitute for B.S.S. fans aching for a fix. However, I wouldn’t be all too shocked if E.A.A.H. attract a lexicon of old and new supporters in the process.

Key Tracks: “Go Ego”, “Scissors”, “Took A Trip To India”, “Two Points”

Grade: 8.3 out of 10

Published by Mountain Views News on April 21, 2012
http://mtnviewsnews.com/v06/htm/n16/p15.htm

Whirr - "Pipe Dreams"

Artist: Whirr

Album: Pipe Dreams

Label: Tee Pee Records

Release Date: March 13, 2012

Review by: Sean Kayden

Whirr is a sextet from the Bay Area. Prior to their debut album, “Pipe Dreams,” the band (formerly known as Whirl) released the EP, “Distressor.” While that record seemed a bit green as far as the band mastering a comprehensive sound, the group appears to now be more comfortable than ever. Whirr has tirelessly been compared to early 90s shoegazers, My Bloody Valentine. It’s obviously these California natives have taken more than a note or two from M.B.V. In spite of that, the young group are still able to structure a defining sound all on their own merits. Call it nostalgia or paying homage, Whirr is bringing the dreamy, heavy-reverb guitar riffs back to 2012 and doing it amazingly well.

“Pipe Dreams” is comprised of ten sprawling, seraphic tracks. The band displays a full wall of sound. The indecipherable vocals are painfully haunting and at times both distant and desolate. With the combination of gloomy chords and melodies, this isn’t your feel good record of the year. Nevertheless, Whirr knows how to change up the pace when needed such as with the sublime “Junebouvier” and equally as enthralling, “Toss”. However, the band is at their utmost supreme when they are conveying a subtle, atmospheric, ambient resonance that can become a harrowing experience. The second to last track, “Wait” fits that abovementioned description. It’s a dazzling showcase of deep reverb, edginess, and pensive bliss. I think Whirr takes a misstep with “Home Where Is My Head Is”, the shortest in length song that is too simple and moderately uninspiring. All in all, “Pipe Dreams” is a work of art that may encourage a listener to seek out the bands responsible for making this one all, but possible. However, if you’re new to the shoegaze genre, “Pipe Dreams” is a terrific place to start.

Unfortunately, an album like this will inexplicably get lost within the crowd. To those who find the time to pay attention to Whirr, be cautiously aware that you may quickly discover yourself rapt with each heavenly track. I would like to note that upon first listen to “Pipe Dreams,” the spectator’s disposition should correspond precisely to what this album bestows—a wistful, early 90s driven vibe, and if you allow it to do so, a deep feeling that will permeate through your body and assuage your taxing spirit. If you’re feeling broken and ineffective, Whirr will rescue you from the depths of darkness to the heights of full illumination.

Grade: 8.4 out of 10
Key Tracks: “Junebouvier”, “Flashback”, “Toss”, “Wait”

Published by Mountain Views News on April 14th, 2012

http://mtnviewsnews.com/v06/htm/n15/p15.htm

Spring Playlist Worth Paying Attention To

Review By: Sean Kayden

Beach House – “Myth”

This empyreal tune is the latest from dream-pop aficionados, Beach House. “Myth” is a spacious, utterly divine track that floats effortlessly behind a hypotonic haze. The weightlessness and organic touch to “Myth” makes it such an easy listen for one to become entirely mesmerized by. With each subsequent release, Beach House continually proves to be a band worth looking into it if you haven’t already. Delivering yet another ineffable gem, the mighty duo is primed for what signals indicate to be a stellar album once again.  

Eight and a Half – “Go Ego”

Eight and A Half is comprised of two members from the out of commission group, The Stills and the drummer from indie titans, Broken Social Scene. What’s the result? Something undeniably wicked. “Go Ego” is more in vein of The Stills, but with much a more minimalistic approach. Rich textures, slick vocals, and heavy-synths, “Go Ego” is the first cool song of 2012. If this is any indication on how the forthcoming album will sound like, then we’re in for one hell of a debut. Eight and A Half may just be the antidote most of us are in need of.

Bear Driver – “Big Love”

The five-piece London band recently dropped the single, “Big Love”. It comes off their debut LP that will arrive this summer. “Big Love” is an indelible pop song with edgy guitar riffs, glossy vocals, and a downright infectious sound. The song is quick, upbeat, and always charming. Bear Driver should be the definite sound for this rapidly approaching summer. After a few EPs and singles under their belt, the lads are prepared for total domination with the release of their first full-length record. Guess what? I’m totally on board with that.

Best Coast – “The Only Place”

2010 beloved band, Best Coast are back with a new single. “The Only Place” is a love letter to California (the band’s home state obviously). Lyrically, “The Only Place” is similar in nature to the tunes off their critically adored debut album, “Crazy For You.” However, their signature sound has expanded and production values are significantly higher. The lo-fi tone is gone, but strangely enough it’s not sorely missed. “The Only Place” is a simple tune, but irrefutably catchy. It’s your “fun in the sun” style of a song. With the faintly new direction in sight, songstress Bethany Cosentino and company are looking to repeat success with their sophomore record this May/

Japandroids – “The House That Heaven Built”

Post-punk duo, Japandroids are back in a big way. Their latest endeavor is aggressive and razor sharp. You can’t help but to not sing along with the “ohs” that are scattered throughout this awesome tune. The rapturous track is both fierce and powerful, but even a bit poppy at moments. “The House That Heaven Built” builds upon its towering, anthem-style energy. Japandroids look to be a mighty force to be reckoned with come this summer when they release, “Celebration Rock”, this presumed behemoth of a rock album.

Published by Mountain Views News on April 7th, 2012
http://mtnviewsnews.com/v06/htm/n14/p13.htm

Delta Spirit - "Delta Spirit"

Artist: Delta Spirit
Album: Delta Spirit
Label: Rounder Records
Release Date: March 13, 2012
Review by: Sean Kayden

The San Diego natives are under the impression they’ve found their calling with the release of their eponymous third record. Delta Spirit never wanted their style to be regarded as a folk rock or alt-country. In spite of their earlier sound wandering around in the confines of those genres, the band always believed they were simply crafting modern rock songs. For the group to release their third album as self-titled, the band is certainly trying to inveigle fans and newcomers alike to finally see what they are truly all about. Is it worth your time? With some hesitation, it’s apparent that Delta Spirit has indeed generated a decent record. However, I must confess, this is now coming from someone who was never truly impressed with the band’s first two records.

The problem with the group’s self-titled album is how inconsistent it is. I never found myself entirely captivated with the experience of listening to it. “Tear It Up,” the second track off the record is fully energetic. It’s my favorite song off the album, but those who’ve previously found spiritual enlightenment through the music of Delta Spirit may be disappointed. The abovementioned song sounds nothing like they’ve ever written before and maybe that’s the reason I thoroughly enjoyed it. The simple lyrics masked behind infectious guitar riffs are what make “Tear It Up” what it is. Some may call it fluff, but I call it pure addictiveness. “Time Bomb” is a beautiful, spiritually driven track that exemplifies the notion of a looming future. The morbidly induced “Into The Darkness” comes off rather haunting. This is the sound Delta Spirit should have gone for with the other songs. At any rate, “Time Bomb” and “Into The Darkness” demonstrates how Delta Spirit really try to become more than just a band simply described as one or two things.

The group stumbles with songs like “Idaho,” “Otherside,” and the god-awful “Tellin’ The Mind”. They feel nothing more than plain filler and suffer from being both unappealing and painfully generic. The trio of songs is a poor representation of what the band wants to now accomplish. Mishaps aside, Delta Spirit has definitely shifted gears with this latest endeavor. No longer can you call them a purely Americana rock band. They’ve some made intrepid choices and credit is due for most of their artistic decisions. With the release of their third record, I don’t know if Delta Spirit is exactly sure if they are the band they’ve all set out to be. If anything, this record constitutes a step forward in the direction they’re trying to head down. However, it’s just not the big leap they were anticipating on achieving.

Key Tracks: “Tear It Up”, “Home”, “Time Bomb”, “Into The Darkness”
Grade: 7 out of 10

Published by Mountain Views News on March 31st, 2012
http://mtnviewsnews.com/v06/htm/n13/p11.htm