tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44591369722577603252024-03-21T16:59:53.447-07:00Try The CalamariChizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-22941779786315732682013-06-10T10:04:00.001-07:002013-06-12T13:34:49.691-07:00Northern Abbey - The Sounds of Glowing<div align="center">
<span style="color: #999999;"><strong><img alt="The Sounds of Glowing cover art" height="320" itemprop="image" src="http://f0.bcbits.com/img/a4149686369_2.jpg" width="320" /></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Source</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #999999;"><strong>Track Listing:</strong></span><br />
1. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/portrait">Portrait</a><br />
2. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/the-trail">The Trail</a><br />
3. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/a-lonesome-road">A Lonesome Road</a><br />
4. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/glowing">Glowing</a><br />
5. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/of-lights">Of Lights</a><br />
6. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/the-several-seas-bonus-track">The Several Seas (Bonus Track)</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
<a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/">Try The Calamari</a> returns with a review of <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Northern Abbey</a>'s brand new EP, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">The Sounds of Glowing</a>. When <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Nick Lambert</a> announced the impending release of his project's next album, I fervently patroled <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Northern Abbey</a>'s <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Bandcamp</a> for days <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(It just so happens that the EP was released the one day I didn't visit the site)</span><span style="font-size: small;">.</span><br />
<br />
Odd as it is, the songs in this album reminded me of a winding brook flowing inbetween moss-covered trees. Why is this odd despite my awkward phrasing? Because <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Northern Abbey</a>'s <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Bandcamp</a> reads, "<em>[Nick Lambert] loves all the greenery, forests, rain, lakes, and people that the northwest brings together, and writes music as a sort of soundtrack to all of it.</em>"<em> </em>Whether you believe me or not, I noticed this description midway through listening to the album. It's fair to say Nick is a master at creating imagery through his music. Particularly reminiscent of said imagery are the tracks <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/portrait">Portrait</a>, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/the-trail">The Trail</a>, and <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/of-lights">Of Lights</a>.<br />
<br />
The album opens with the serene yet relatively upbeat <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/portrait">Portrait</a>. The track boasts flawless instrumental combinations such as an interesting piano and guitar colaboration along with Nick's steady vocals. A perfect song to ring in the new album, in my opinion.<br />
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In the next track, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/the-trail">The Trail</a>, Nick sought out the help of his wife, Shiloh, to create a very calming and peaceful melody. Though subtle, this acoustic track showcases feel-good euphonics that'll demand your undivided attention.<br />
<br />
The EP takes a dramatic turn in the following track, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/a-lonesome-road">A Lonesome Road</a>. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/a-lonesome-road">A Lonesome Road</a> is an instrumental with <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(what I assume to be)</span> Arabic influences. While listening to this track, a feeling of impending dread is what I would describe my immediate feelings as. Not to say that I dislike the track; in fact, it's quite the opposite. This instrumental is original and an provides an interesting change of pace.<br />
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<a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/glowing">Glowing</a> is a little bit more progressive than the earlier songs in the EP. This track's tempo alternates from from a somewhat rapid pace to a soothing, melodic gait. However, the next track, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/of-lights">Of Lights</a>, maintains a slow tempo that is quite mesmerizing.<br />
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Finishing off the EP, Nick offers us a bonus track. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/the-several-seas-bonus-track">The Several Seas (Bonus Track)</a>. It's easy to tell why Nick labelled this song as a bonus track as the sound doesn't quite correlate with the other songs in the album, but that doesn't make this song any less incredible. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/the-several-seas-bonus-track">The Several Seas (Bonus Track)</a> has somewhat of a 70s electronic vibe <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(or Sega Genesis vibe)</span><span style="font-size: small;"> with heavy used of synthesizers. It's certainly a unique way to finish off the album.</span><br />
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Though short, it's plain to tell that the effort put into these songs is more than most artists put into full-length albums. I urge you to migrate to a desolate location and listen to <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">The Sounds of Glowing</a> in its entirety. You will not be disappointed, and if you are, well then, that's just, like, your opinion, man.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Final Verdict:</span></span></b></span><br />
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Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-13782846033801523452013-05-22T09:38:00.000-07:002013-05-22T09:38:31.040-07:00The Dear Hunter - Migrant<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" id="il_fi" src="http://www.thatmusicmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Music-Review-The-Dear-Hunter.JPEG-01477.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="319" /><br />
<a href="http://www.thatmusicmag.com/index.php/2013/04/the-dear-hunter-migrant/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #999999;"><strong>Track Listing:</strong></span><br />
1. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Bring You Down</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Whisper</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Shame</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">An Escape</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Shouting at the Rain</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">The Kiss of Life</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Girl </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
8. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Cycles</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Sweete Naivete</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
10. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Let Go</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
11. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">The Vicious Place</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
12. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Don't Look Back</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;">The album is available to listen for free on <a href="http://billboard.com/">Billboard.com</a> which is why all songs link back to</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;">the same article. [EDIT] Since finishing this post, <a href="http://billboard.com/">Billboard.com</a> has removed most of the album.</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;">Therefore, I suggest you listen to the album using Spotify.</span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/">Try The Calamari</a> brings you another review of <a href="http://thedearhunter.com/">The Dear Hunter</a> with the release of their first ever nonconceptual album <a href="http://thedearhunter.merchnow.com/">Migrant</a> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(I ordered the deluxe package because I'm a nerd. Also, because the band is phenomenal)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. <a href="http://www.thedearhunter.com/">Casey Crescenzo</a> with his familar orchestral and theatrical sound that massages the sound holes.</span><br />
<br />
The album begins with a track that gently lures the listener into the album through soothing strings and steady keys. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Bring You Down</a> soon introduces Casey's vocals and an explosion of horns. The song is quite deceiving as it starts with a somewhat bleak aura and transitions into an uplifting, encouraging harmony.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Whisper</a> starts off quite jaunty with a very fast-paced tempo. This track uses a vast combination of instruments which makes for boisterous adventure. However, the following song <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Shame</a> takes the pace down a notch by introducing a parlor type atmosphere. The violin, piano, and conservative snare carries the track for a time before a subtle orchestral sound rings forth later.<br />
<br />
Next, <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">An Escape</a> brings back the accelerating tempo and showcases another uplifting song.<br />
<a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Girl </a>starts with a grungy and repetitive guitar and drum beat, but at around 0:45, the song breaks into a more polished sound. What's truly interesting about this song is that it features Casey's sister Azia in the background vocals. The track closes out powerfully with Casey's familiar style of shouts and explosion of intruments. My only complaint about this song is that it's too short (<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Otherwise, it rivals the sound of an angel beat boxing into a harmonica... which I assume would be a particularly pleasant sound)</span>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Cycles</a> is a soothing rhyme with easy vocals. The verying tempos work with one another to create a wavering melody that is quite serene. <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">The Vicious Place</a> also has a similar vibe to the song. What makes this song unique is the subtle piano breakdown that hovers over a void of silence. And finally, finishing off the album is <a href="http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1554459/the-dear-hunter-migrant-exclusive-album-premiere">Don't Look Back</a>. This song is somehwat repetative in lyrics, but the instrumentals are more than enough to make up for the simplicity.<br />
<br />
Sorry for my absense and the half-assedness of this review, but this post has been sitting half-done in my draft box for weeks, so I figured I'd get it over with. To conclude this review, I strongly suggest that you give this album a listen. I'm not only saying that because these guys are my favorite band but because this album is brilliantly orchestrated and wonderfully directed.<br />
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<span style="color: #999999;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Final Verdict:</span></strong></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnfVxq_9AAXaHsnmofQSUyhQ0dfVIhfhYedpysdJ_lfdumc4BsmvLiz0C5NOjV87PB8Jva2LOvTEQcRoxEAVHB8so0vdJ1z7NqfqjmNv8-B0ZIf772gSWm5g3nl9Fp1gReulsbJ_ct04/s1600/3.5+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_362088511="3" closure_uid_722928577="2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnfVxq_9AAXaHsnmofQSUyhQ0dfVIhfhYedpysdJ_lfdumc4BsmvLiz0C5NOjV87PB8Jva2LOvTEQcRoxEAVHB8so0vdJ1z7NqfqjmNv8-B0ZIf772gSWm5g3nl9Fp1gReulsbJ_ct04/s1600/3.5+Rating+(130x50).png" /></a></div>
<br /><br /><br />Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-19933742879847721022013-03-25T10:14:00.000-07:002013-03-25T15:16:46.148-07:00Deas Vail - Birds & Cages<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: #999999;"><img height="320" src="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100525205545/heavenmusic/images/9/97/Birds_%26_Cages.jpg" width="320" /></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://heavenmusic.wikia.com/wiki/Category:Albums_by_Deas_Vail">Source</a></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #999999;">Track Listing:</span></strong></div>
<div align="center">
1. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nTNxdMiJbs">The Things You Were</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v91eQbflFA">Growing Pains</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8edTAafTR6I">Excuses</a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pimClr5bCNA">Cages</a></div>
<div align="center">
5. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-3_dAVJIrQ">Birds</a></div>
<div align="center">
6. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGgFsdvjAXo">Tell Me</a></div>
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7. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMyAdtkFS5o">Dance In Perfect Time</a></div>
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8. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4xjsekBXqs">Sunlight</a></div>
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9. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUPWov9ZF5o">Puzzles And Pieces</a></div>
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10. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAUvjwe6yKs">The Great Physician</a></div>
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11. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KmtLI5n_3U">The Leaper</a></div>
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12. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=215a2CI-OlM">Atlantis</a><br />
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<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Although I'm providing YouTube links to the songs, I'd strongly suggest you</b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>listen to the tracks via Spotify or iTunes as the sound on the YouTube videos</b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>is altered in order to avoid copyright issues.</b></span></div>
</div>
<div align="center">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Welcome to <a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/">Try The Calamari</a>, where music meets marinated squid rings <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(The tagline is still in the works)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. Today I will be reviewing the jaunty and beatific Birds & Cages by Deas Vail. Deas Vail<span style="line-height: 115%;">—meaning "humble servant of God"</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">—is apply named for it's Christian influences as the band uses their music as an outlet for their faith.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
The band is made up of the singer and pianist Wesley Blaylock, backup vocalist and keyboardist Laura Blaylock, bassist Justin Froning. percussionist and drummer Wes Saunders, and guitarist Andy Moore. The instruments are very definitive—especially when it comes to the piano and guitar. Wesley Blaylock has a subtle yet beautiful voice as he exhibits his range of vocals<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (I know I say I don't like the compare artists, but he's essentially the male version of Imogen Jennifer Heap from Imogen Heap and Frou Frou)</span><span style="font-size: small;">.</span><br />
<br />
The album begins with a sprightly, uplifting track that flaunts Wesley's vocals along with an array of string instruments including a violin. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nTNxdMiJbs">The Things You Were</a> is a great way to showcase the album due to the varying pitches and the interesting breakdown at 2:35 where the track takes on a new sound altogether. It steadily builds up until the point that it reverts back to the original tempo. Also, we get to hear Laura's euphonic vocals if only for a moment.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v91eQbflFA">Growing Pains</a> has is homogeneous with the initial track while carrying a slightly more upbeat pace; whereas, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8edTAafTR6I">Excuses</a> is a track that's primarily dominated by guitar and Wesley's vocals. Following up with a moderate tempo and slight increase in the variety of sound is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pimClr5bCNA">Cages</a>.<br />
<br />
However, the song that I believe truly dominates the album is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-3_dAVJIrQ">Birds</a>. This song is heavy in piano, and the listener is able to appreciate the full range of Wesley's voice. The piano is eventually drowned out by a flood of guitar and percussion for moments in time during the song, but it consistently resumes its position at the forefront throughout the track.<br />
<br />
Following <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-3_dAVJIrQ">Birds</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGgFsdvjAXo">Tell Me</a> introduces a brief intermission through steady, soothing vocals over a gentle piano. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMyAdtkFS5o">Dance In Perfect Time</a> is similar in sound to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nTNxdMiJbs">The Things You Were</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v91eQbflFA">Growing Pains</a>, but <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4xjsekBXqs">Sunlight</a> picks up the pace with an upbeat tempo. Aside from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-3_dAVJIrQ">Birds</a>, I'd say this is one of the better tracks on the album, especially when the band uses the full extent of their instruments at the 1:03 mark.<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUPWov9ZF5o">Puzzles And Pieces</a> takes the tone down a notch, to say the least. This is a very cerebral and calming track, even moreso than the rest of the songs on the album. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAUvjwe6yKs">The Great Physician</a> starts off very much in the same way as the previous track, but at 2:10, Wes picks up the pitch of his vocals and a guitar rings forth over the rest of the instruments.<br />
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The album closes with the tracks <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KmtLI5n_3U">The Leaper</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=215a2CI-OlM">Atlantis</a> which, like a lot of the tracks, carry that all too familiar sound.<br />
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Now, although this album lacks a bit in diversity, Wes can correct this issue using his range and cerebral vocals. I would have liked to have seen a more colorful display of tempo, but I suppose it could be argued that it's never wise to fix what's not broken. I suggest you listen to the album and decide for yourselves whether or not the album carries a unique aura. Though overall, I really enjoyed Birds & Cages, and I cannot deny that it is a spectacular album with a celestial sound.<br />
<br />
<strong>Final Verdict:</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoafGyXyF54zIQ2Bb49YgbiwFo2ZyYivGCZAE-zgRl6uc6CHq-JGVaQKsHhNPO5hmHwKpib2iz_KMdrlreUaoRKuPHXcIDAzECYOLoD4OZQH-TJ1lgziZN1T11ae3UlbPS0cnzDnsogs/s1600/3+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_314211812="5" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoafGyXyF54zIQ2Bb49YgbiwFo2ZyYivGCZAE-zgRl6uc6CHq-JGVaQKsHhNPO5hmHwKpib2iz_KMdrlreUaoRKuPHXcIDAzECYOLoD4OZQH-TJ1lgziZN1T11ae3UlbPS0cnzDnsogs/s1600/3+Rating+(130x50).png" /></a></div>
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Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-17230516142217657252013-03-01T10:28:00.000-08:002013-03-01T10:28:33.572-08:00dredg - The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #999999;"><img height="286" src="http://www.monstunes.com/images/msmotd/dredgalbum.jpg" width="320" /></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.monstunes.com/2009/06/dredg-same-ol-road/">Source</a></span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #999999;">Track Listing:</span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IB0rOEvYKTQ">Pariah</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgthkVTpEt8">Drunk Slide</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ljk4iysVM3Y">Ireland</a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYubIoGyR_E">Stamp Of Origin: Pessimistic</a></div>
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5. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYubIoGyR_E">Lightswitch</a></div>
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6. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DvY_mCe_NM">Gathering Pebbles</a></div>
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7. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cD4lnJOmSwI">Information</a></div>
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8. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-AlDQdX604">Stamp Of Origin: Ocean Meets Bay</a></div>
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9. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AqxeNkFjFw">Saviour</a></div>
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10. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXuXnSY40H4">R U O K?</a></div>
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11. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHjiz6EEI1I">I Don't Know</a></div>
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12. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSdOk5VUtfE">Mourning This Morning</a></div>
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13. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrMKtEcvihU">Stamp Of Origin: Take A Look Around</a></div>
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14. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSXj8n48FoY">Long Days And Vague Clues</a></div>
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15. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbbLBaf8Br8">Cartoon Showroom</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">16. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cj39P9n1JHY">Quotes</a></span></div>
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17. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDIVA2sDnek">Down To The Cellar</a></div>
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18. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5GgKDBH1UU">Stamp Of Origin: Horizons</a><br />
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<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Although I'm providing YouTube links to the songs, I'd strongly suggest you</b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>listen to the tracks via Spotify or iTunes as the sound on the YouTube videos</b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>is altered in order to avoid copyright issues.</b></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">No, it's not a grammatical error, </span><a href="http://dredg.com/" style="line-height: 17px;">dredg</a><span style="line-height: 17px;"> is actually written entirely in lowercase <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(It's called trend setting)</span>. You can put that irritating suspicion at ease. Anyway, today I will be reviewing the brilliantly eccentric and dynamic album, </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 17px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://dredg.merchnow.com/products/102675">The Pariah, The Parrot, The Delusion</a>, which is loosely based off Salman Rushdie's essay, </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 17px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/1999/oct/16/salmanrushdie">Imagine There Is No Heaven</a>. But, this is a review of music not literature, so I'm not going to delve into that.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 17px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Like a majority of the reviews I've conducted thus far, this band i<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">s no stranger to experimentation, and this album is most certainly not an exception. Vocalist <span style="line-height: 19px;">Gavin Hayes, guitarist Mark Engles, bassist Drew Roulette, and drummer Dino Campanella amalgamate their </span><span style="line-height: 19px;">individual</span><span style="line-height: 19px;"> talents to bring this extraordinary album. The band has slight metal influences, but it is far more progressive, blending heavy instrumentals with alternative vocals.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times;">The album is introduced by an eerie children's chant overlapping a piano. As soon as the repetitive, short-lived chant comes to a conclusion, the drum and guitar proceed to take over the track. Gavin Hayes introduces his vocals through subtle distortion, yet it is easy to see that he has complete control of his voice. He may not have the most unique voice, but it's impossible to disregard his talent. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IB0rOEvYKTQ"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Pariah</span></a> carries an alternative vibe much like many of the tracks on the album.</span><br />
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Following <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IB0rOEvYKTQ"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Pariah</span></a> comes a short but catchy electronic instrumental track, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgthkVTpEt8">Drunk Slide</a>, using interesting sounds including a xylophone and distorted piano. Another experimental instrumental <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(That's a tongue-twister)</span> is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXuXnSY40H4">R U O K?</a> which uses a consistent piano melody and steady percussion while mixing in various soundscapes and electronic tones. The album does feature a traditional instrumental; though, that's not to suggest that it's in the least bit dull. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSXj8n48FoY">Long Days And Vague Clues</a> is a very animated track that evokes a sense of approaching trepidation and chaos. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Times;"></span>The album also features soothing and serene alternative tracks. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ljk4iysVM3Y">Ireland</a> is relatively upbeat yet revolves around a steady and simple rhythm. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYubIoGyR_E">Lightswitch</a> works with alternating tempos while featuring southern instrumental influences. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AqxeNkFjFw">Saviour</a> seizes the opportunity to trash on the guitars by providing a metal-esque track. And, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cD4lnJOmSwI">Information</a> is a jaunty and uplifting melody, mixing multiple instruments and Hayes' vocals to produce a confident harmony. But, I believe it is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DvY_mCe_NM">Gathering Pebbles</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHjiz6EEI1I">I Don't Know</a>, and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSdOk5VUtfE">Mourning This Morning</a> that truly captures the albums dynamics by showcasing refreshing pulse that tickles your ear holes.<br />
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Aside from the unique instrumentals and vocals, this album has four very short tracks all beginning with the title <em>Stamp of Origin</em>. These mysterious tracks all sound very much alike and use minimal (if any) vocals and subtle beats. I'll leave it up to you to decipher their meanings <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Yes, of course because I'm lazy)</span>. <br />
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And that brings my review to a close. Again (as always) I urge you to give this album a shot. If I enjoyed reviewing it, I hope that you'll—at the very least—enjoy listening to it. It's unique enough to carry a sound all its own but not so outlandish that you'll be lost in its attempts at experimentation.<br />
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<span style="color: #999999;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Final Verdict:</span></strong></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnfVxq_9AAXaHsnmofQSUyhQ0dfVIhfhYedpysdJ_lfdumc4BsmvLiz0C5NOjV87PB8Jva2LOvTEQcRoxEAVHB8so0vdJ1z7NqfqjmNv8-B0ZIf772gSWm5g3nl9Fp1gReulsbJ_ct04/s1600/3.5+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_722928577="2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnfVxq_9AAXaHsnmofQSUyhQ0dfVIhfhYedpysdJ_lfdumc4BsmvLiz0C5NOjV87PB8Jva2LOvTEQcRoxEAVHB8so0vdJ1z7NqfqjmNv8-B0ZIf772gSWm5g3nl9Fp1gReulsbJ_ct04/s1600/3.5+Rating+(130x50).png" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">Also, I'm always diligently searching for refreshing and unique albums to review. If you know of a band that you think will peak my interest <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(or not)</span><span style="font-size: small;"> let me know in the comment section or otherwise. I'd be more than happy to write a review on it. Just don't be offended if I give it a rating slightly less than you'd hoped </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Not that my ratings are worth a damn)</span><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span><br />
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Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-17920078178371414422013-02-16T08:59:00.000-08:002013-02-24T15:04:37.275-08:00Northern Abbey - Northern Abbey<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="http://f0.bcbits.com/z/17/97/1797041360-1.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Source</a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #999999;">Track Listing:</span></b></div>
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1. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/catacombs" style="text-align: start;">Catacombs</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/wayward-village" style="text-align: start;">Wayward Village</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/paintings" style="text-align: start;">Paintings</a></div>
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Yep, that's it for the track listing. You'll finally be spared my long-winded, senseless ramblings that are usually incapable of being interpreted. <br />
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While perusing the depths of the internet <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Don't worry. I didn't go too far down the rabbit hole)</span><span style="font-size: small;"> I happened upon an interesting sound. After much investigation </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(I looked to the top of the page)</span><span style="font-size: small;">, I found the source of the harmonic resonance to be that of <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Northern Abbey</a>'s self-titled EP. </span><br />
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Now, there isn't much that I could find out about this band/project, but it was intriguing enough to write a review on it despite it's extremely short composition. However, it's a complex, refreshing, and cinematic experience despite the length.<br />
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This experimental EP was written and produced by Nick Lambert of <a href="http://machinedeellaproject.fallinguplives.com/">Falling Up</a>. Jordan Wood contributed the drums, bass, stomps, and claps while Eric Stanwell played the violin and cello. Jessy Ribordy, also a member of <a href="http://machinedeellaproject.fallinguplives.com/">Falling Up</a> and <a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-river-empires-epilogue.html">The River Empires</a>, engineered and mixed the EP while too contributing to the claps and stomps. And, it seems as though Wikipedia is slacking because that is literally all I could find out about the band. Anyway, onward to the track breakdown!<br />
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The album begins with <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/catacombs">Catacombs</a> which is a complex and celestial track. The song leads in with a delayed yet soothing piano while electronic influences accompany it soon after. Lambert introduces his voice about a minute in and continues with very repetitive lyrics. Despite the monotonous melody, his vocals are extremely euphonious and most certainly add to the beauty and allure of the track. However, the song does pull a M. Night Shyamalan at 3 minutes and 45 second. The listeners are lead to believe the song is over as it breaks off into silence, but after waiting 25 more seconds, a strange static tapping interrupts the dead air and an explosion of distorted, electronic instrumentals finish the track out.<br />
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Following <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/catacombs">Catacombs</a> is the classical instrumental, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/wayward-village">Wayward Village</a>. This song is introduced by a sharp violin that is then accompanied by the light plucking of cello strings. A minute in, a piano joins the two and blends in seamlessly with the melody. Two thirds of the way into the song, the classical theme is transformed by the addition of a bass and drum with heavy metal influences which then leads the track to its finality. It's a very interesting take on classical music regardless of the track's length and simplicity.<br />
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And last, but not least<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">—</span>in fact <i>most</i>, for that matter<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">—</span>is <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/track/paintings">Paintings</a>. This song finally gives Lambert's vocals some credit. His voice is carried through a ballroom echo <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(I just made that term up, but it sounds intelligent and makes sense in my mind)</span> and holds a relatively high octave. It's a pretty bare track in terms of its instrumental expansiveness, but the acoustic guitar and slightly oriental influences mix to add a surreal and soothing sound. The track finishes the EP leaving the listener feeling calm yet craving more.<br />
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This orchestral album carries an intriguing melody and a few surprises that captivates the audience. It's a short EP, but the complexity and original choice of instruments cannot be overlooked. Although the vocals are repetitive, their unique resonance helps them hold their ground among the instrumentals. In my opinion, <a href="http://northernabbey.bandcamp.com/">Northern Abbey</a> gives you a taste that leaves a lingering appetite. I hope that the band continues this endeavor and releases a longer EP or album in the near future because it's definitely gained my attention.<br />
<br />
<b>Final Verdict:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnfVxq_9AAXaHsnmofQSUyhQ0dfVIhfhYedpysdJ_lfdumc4BsmvLiz0C5NOjV87PB8Jva2LOvTEQcRoxEAVHB8so0vdJ1z7NqfqjmNv8-B0ZIf772gSWm5g3nl9Fp1gReulsbJ_ct04/s1600/3.5+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnfVxq_9AAXaHsnmofQSUyhQ0dfVIhfhYedpysdJ_lfdumc4BsmvLiz0C5NOjV87PB8Jva2LOvTEQcRoxEAVHB8so0vdJ1z7NqfqjmNv8-B0ZIf772gSWm5g3nl9Fp1gReulsbJ_ct04/s1600/3.5+Rating+(130x50).png" /></a></div>
<br />Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-43997517319101364012013-02-09T15:26:00.000-08:002013-02-09T15:26:44.093-08:00Person L - The Positives<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="File:Person L The Positives.jpg" height="320" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b5/Person_L_The_Positives.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Person_L_The_Positives.jpg">Source</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #999999;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #999999;">Track Listing:</span></b></div>
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1. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/hole-in-the-fence" style="text-align: start;">Hole In The Fence</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/good-days" style="text-align: start;">Good Days</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">3. </span><a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/the-positives-2" style="text-align: start;">The Positives</a></div>
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4. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/goodness-gracious-2" style="text-align: start;">Goodness Gracious</a></div>
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5. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/new-sensations" style="text-align: start;">New Sensations</a></div>
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6. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/stay-calm" style="text-align: start;">Stay Calm</a></div>
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7. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/sit-tight" style="text-align: start;">Sit Tight</a></div>
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8. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/loudmouth" style="text-align: start;">Loudmouth</a></div>
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9. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/changed-man" style="text-align: start;">Changed Man</a></div>
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10. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/pleasure-is-all-mine" style="text-align: start;">Pleasure Is All Mine</a></div>
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11. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/untitled" style="text-align: start;">Untitled</a></div>
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12. <a href="http://i%20sing%20the%20body%20electric/" style="text-align: start;">I Sing The Body Electric</a></div>
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Getting sick and tired of my incessant concept album reviews? Well, lucky for you, I'll be reviewing <a href="http://www.purevolume.com/personl">Person L</a>'s second full-length album <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-positives">The Positives</a>. This band is fronted by a Mr. Kenny Visoli from the pop punk band <a href="http://www.startinglinerock.com/">The Starting Line</a>. Other members of the band include the drummers, Brian Medlin and Ryan Zimmaro, the bassist, Charles Schneider, and the keyboardist/guitarist Nate Vaeth.<br />
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<a href="http://www.purevolume.com/personl">Person L</a>'s methodically crude and strained vocals weave with repetitive beats to create an uplifting and, at times, tranquil melody. But, enough with my nonsensical, brief album breakdowns; let's get started.<br />
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The album kicks off with a track exhibiting serene and ethereal guitar riffs overlapping a rapid snare. In <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/hole-in-the-fence">Hole In The Fence</a>, Kenny Vasoli's vocals seamlessly ease their way in with the instruments. It's a very cozy song up until the 3 minute mark when the guitars and drums erupt in unison <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(I'll stop trying to make this sound so sexual)</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span>and exit in a distorted mix of sounds.<br />
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<a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/good-days">Good Days</a> carries a slightly more upbeat tempo. Vasoli's voice is heard more upfront and showcases his range and even a glimpse of his shouts. There is certainly more of a force behind the guitar and other instruments. Following <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/good-days">Good Days</a> is <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/the-positives-2">The Positives</a> which picks up the pace even more. Although Vasoli is a bit more conservative with his vocals in this track, the beat is catchy and the entirety of the song blends well enough.<br />
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Up next is <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/goodness-gracious-2">Goodness Gracious</a> which is a lot more grungy than the last 3 tracks. It goes so far as to mix heavy guitar and drums while featuring horns and even cowbell<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (Must fight urge to bring up Christopher Walken's SNL sketch)</span>. The phonics are dynamic and unkempt to match the pace of the instrumentals. The following song, <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/new-sensations">New Sensations</a>, has the same feel of <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/goodness-gracious-2">Goodness Gracious</a>, and although I hate to compare bands, the sound is very reminiscent of <a href="http://www.last.fm/music/The+Hives">The Hives</a>, just a little more gnarly and boisterous.<br />
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<a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/stay-calm">Stay Calm</a> sounds much like the title suggests, calm. However, there is an audible sense of apprehension with a psychedelic facet in the tone of the track. Adversely, the following song, <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/sit-tight">Sit Tight</a>, holds the opposite effect as it features compelling and sometimes strained vocals and an uplifting tempo to snap the listener out of their previously imposed funk.<br />
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In the next track, <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/loudmouth">Loudmouth</a>, Vasoli's voice is distorted and is supported by energetic and upbeat instruments. This song has the same audible atmosphere as <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/goodness-gracious-2">Goodness Gracious</a> and <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/new-sensations">New Sensations</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/changed-man">Changed Man</a> features a bluesy guitar riff and Vasoli's characteristic articulate and drowning vocals. The subject matter of the track is also a hallmark of most blues songs. <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/changed-man">Changed Man</a> is definitely the most unique and intriguing song on the album, in my opinion. The singer's pleading shouts are truly powerful. Afterward <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/pleasure-is-all-mine">Pleasure Is All Mine</a> brings back the uplifting aura with a fast beat and quick lyrics.<br />
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<a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/track/untitled">Untitled</a> is truly an invigorating and influential song. There is a lot of build up in the song which leads to the singer's intense vocals exploding onto the track. But it's <a href="http://i%20sing%20the%20body%20electric/">I Sing The Body Electric</a> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Yes, like Walt Whitman's poem)</span> that truly mesmerizes the listener with its elegant melody and warming lyrics. It's definitely a perfect way to close out an album presenting so many different tempos and styles.<br />
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In closing, <a href="http://www.purevolume.com/personl">Person L</a>'s <a href="http://scyllarecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-positives">The Positives</a> is a pretty good album. Although the beats can get overly repetitive at times, the explosive vocals and varied pacing adds creativity and originality to the album. As a disclaimer, the album may not be suited for everyone, but give it a listen and you may find yourself satisfied with your decision. It definitely plays with your emotions <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Oh, Mary-Beth! Why did you leave me all alone on prom night!)</span>.<br />
<br />
<b>Final Verdict:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoafGyXyF54zIQ2Bb49YgbiwFo2ZyYivGCZAE-zgRl6uc6CHq-JGVaQKsHhNPO5hmHwKpib2iz_KMdrlreUaoRKuPHXcIDAzECYOLoD4OZQH-TJ1lgziZN1T11ae3UlbPS0cnzDnsogs/s1600/3+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoafGyXyF54zIQ2Bb49YgbiwFo2ZyYivGCZAE-zgRl6uc6CHq-JGVaQKsHhNPO5hmHwKpib2iz_KMdrlreUaoRKuPHXcIDAzECYOLoD4OZQH-TJ1lgziZN1T11ae3UlbPS0cnzDnsogs/s1600/3+Rating+(130x50).png" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-52367878375580656592013-02-05T15:37:00.000-08:002013-02-05T15:37:53.567-08:00The River Empires - Epilogue<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibah7IG5d6-oklyp-fD3OL_VIw52_7aQVHQyegbgGmDzGHKaxN4N6brWVx9PUthO31Q74Dl7u0jcVVOKDh1snaJjCaJHGSLqjlP1KSO2lZh6IBHrH9CO_5c05gGMG1S8VShsBBvASJi1cf/s320/RiverEmpiresCD_1_large.jpg" width="320" /><br />
<b><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://sideburnsmovement.blogspot.com/2011/02/some-of-best-albums-of-2010.html">Source</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Track Listing:</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-river-empires-theme-i">The River Empires Theme I</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/overture-in-thales-summer">Overture In Thales Summer</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">3. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/our-neighbor-the-earth">Our Neighbor The Earth</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">4. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-coventry">The Coventry</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">5. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/galloping-through-day-blooms">Galloping Through Day Blooms</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">6. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-harbourland">The Harbourland</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">7. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/from-faye-to-astral">From Faye To Astral</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">8. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-toast-to-the-snake-king">A Toast To The Snake King</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">9. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-first-message">The First Message</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">10. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/catacombs-and-orchards">Catacombs And Orchards</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">11. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/three-tigers" target="_blank">Three Tigers</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">12. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/stag-hollow-fair">Stag Hollow Fair</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">13. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/lull-of-celeste">Lull Of Celeste</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">14. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/from-outside-the-cellar">From Outside The Cellar</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">15. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/vcias-in-the-pines">Vcias In The Pines</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">16. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-dimmer-lux">A Dimmer Lux</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">17. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/lillius">Lillius</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">18. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/witches-blossom-2">Witches Blossom</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">19. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-curse-of-maybel-cains">The Curse Of Maybel Cains</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">20. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/wildbriar">Wildbriar</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">21. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-motorbike">The Motorbike</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">22. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-pelican">The Pelican</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">23. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-backyard-in-sparkles">The Backyard In Sparkles</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">24. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/land-of-canoes">Land Of Canoes</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">25. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/theon-the-fox">Theon The Fox</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">26. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/an-elliptic-figure-from-borelli">An Elliptic Figure From Borelli</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">27. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-marching-of-the-clocks">The Marching Of The Clocks</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">28. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-woods-of-northland">The Woods Of Northland</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">29. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-river-empires-theme-ii">The River Empires Theme II</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To continue my streak, I present to you yet another concept album, <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/album/epilogue">Epilogue</a> by <a href="http://www.theriverempires.com/">The River Empires</a>. However, unlike the the previous concept albums I've recently reviewed, this album does not weave a chronological story; rather, it acts as the soundtrack to a yet unmade screenplay trilogy called, well, The River Empires. Don't you fret, though; <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/album/epilogue">Epilogue</a> doesn't not reveal any spoilers as the album is too difficult to make sense of. If you're looking to learn more about the cultivation of this peculiar album because you found my brief explanation hollow, emotionless, and inadequate, then <a href="http://www.theriverempires.com/2010/02/a-very-important-message/">read this</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Moving onward, <a href="http://www.theriverempires.com/">The River Empires</a> came to fruition when <a href="http://machinedeellaproject.fallinguplives.com/">Falling Up</a>'s <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.1875px;">Jessy Ribordy and Josh Shroy teamed up with the likes of <a href="http://www.thedearhunter.com/">The Dear Hunter</a>'s Casey Crescenzo</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.1875px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 19.1875px;">(What a coincidence</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">—I swear I'm not stalking him)</span> and a collaboration of other talented artists to bring to life this intricate story of two children who stumble upon a cryptic message in a bottle. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">The band has a sound all its own which combines bluegrass, folk, and indie with soothing vocals, deep-country twang, soundscape, and standard rock instrumentals.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 115%;">The album begins with and ends with two variations of the soundtrack's theme, </span><a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-river-empires-theme-i" style="text-align: center;">The River Empires Theme I</a> and <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-river-empires-theme-ii" style="text-align: center;">The River Empires Theme II</a>. The first version of the theme starts off with a repetitive, slightly mournful piano melody as a childish, fragmented piano plays in the background. The song then seamlessly transitions into <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/overture-in-thales-summer" style="text-align: center;">Overture In Thales Summer</a>, where Jessy Ribody's tranquilizing vocals are put on display. The second variation, <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-river-empires-theme-ii" style="text-align: center;">The River Empires Theme II</a>, starts in the same way as the initial theme but later implements orchestral and surreal instrumentation to close out the album. It appropriately correlates to the album's title as the initial theme evokes speculations of finality; whereas, the second theme is expressive of tranquility and completeness <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(I try so hard to make sense. It's sometimes painful)</span>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The album is comprised of songs varying in tempos and ranges. A few of the tracks carry a hymn-like atmosphere such as<span style="text-align: center;"> </span><a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-coventry" style="text-align: center;">The Coventry</a> and others maintain a soothing atmosphere such as <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/catacombs-and-orchards" style="text-align: center;">Catacombs And Orchards</a>. Usually these songs are heavy in piano melodies and hold a conservative use of string instruments.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, there are also purely instrumental tracks which appear as though they signify action including <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/from-faye-to-astral" style="text-align: center;">From Faye To Astral</a> and <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-pelican" style="text-align: center;">The Pelican</a>, which songs that sound almost sly and mischievous, and <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-first-message" style="text-align: center;">The First Message</a> and <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/wildbriar" style="text-align: center;">Wildbriar</a>, which seems suggestive of rapid-paced action or passage of time. Furthermore, there are tracks that the band seemingly uses as playgrounds for experimental sounds, soundscape, and recorded conversations such as <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/galloping-through-day-blooms" style="text-align: center;">Galloping Through Day Blooms</a>, <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/stag-hollow-fair" style="text-align: center;">Stag Hollow Fair</a>, and <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/the-woods-of-northland" style="text-align: center;">The Woods Of Northland</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The songs which verily bring forth <a href="http://www.theriverempires.com/">The River Empires</a>' full range of talent are the upbeat songs which sport a heavy bluegrass influence and an indie rock persona. The three best examples of this are <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-toast-to-the-snake-king" style="text-align: center;">A Toast To The Snake King</a>, <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/three-tigers" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Three Tigers</a>, and <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-dimmer-lux" style="text-align: center;">A Dimmer Lux</a>. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-toast-to-the-snake-king" style="text-align: center;">A Toast To The Snake King</a> isn't at all shy with the amount of twangity twang. It is definitely the most upbeat and fast-paced song on the album, as well. <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/three-tigers" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Three Tigers</a> doesn't flaunt the bluegrass influence quite as much as <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-toast-to-the-snake-king" style="text-align: center;">A Toast To The Snake Kin</a>, but that's not to say that it isn't at all apparent. What really sets this song apart from the rest is the band-wide chant that takes place at 2:20. Now, I'm not usually a fan of chants, but this band executes it flawlessly, which is a bizarre claim considering that they emphasize the flaws in the chant (i.e. vocals drawing longer on than expected, varying pitches). Lastly, <a href="http://theriverempires.bandcamp.com/track/a-dimmer-lux" style="text-align: center;">A Dimmer Lux</a> holds the trophy for the catchiest and most mesmerizing beat. It is, in my opinion, the best track on the album.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Alright, to wrap up this long-winded review, I'll leave you off with a bit of a synopsis. Although I feel as if <a href="http://www.theriverempires.com/">The River Empires</a> might go a little haywire with the experimental tracks and the album is difficult to interpret in context, the sound is one-of-a-kind. This mix of genre is so original and the band executes it so exquisitely that you'll be doing yourself an injustice not to give it a chance. It may not be for everyone, but I reiterate, it deserves some gosh darn attention.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;"><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Final Verdict:</span></b></span><br />
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Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-40245549073020876332013-01-31T16:11:00.000-08:002013-02-03T09:50:24.330-08:00Forgive Durden - Razia's Shadow<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="File:Fordurraz.jpg" height="320" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/03/Fordurraz.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.98611068725586px;"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fordurraz.jpg">Source</a></span></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #999999;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Track Listing:</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">1. </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znHpyf1Lolo" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Genesis (feat. Casey Crescenzo)</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dplymDfXVgY" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">The Missing Piece (feat. Lizzie Huffman)</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TenD6C152sU" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Life Is Looking Up</a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoCdTAbLKws" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">The Spider and The Lamps (feat. Max Bemis)</a></div>
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5. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiaZcZf4ENg" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Toba The Tura (feat. Chris Conley)</a></div>
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6. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3rUy1T0_L0" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">The Oracle (feat. Danny Stevens)</a></div>
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7. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ozk4vA-TbUM" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">A Thousand Year, Minute-Long Intermission (feat. Danny Stevens)</a></div>
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8. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fk-teoa3xYw" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">The Exit (feat. Brendon Urie And Dan Young)</a></div>
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9. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxJoS9ShSeI" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">It's True Love (feat. Greta Salpeter)</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: start;">10. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfKq9YhCuMA">Meet The King (feat. Greta Salpeter And Nic Newsham)</a></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">11. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQ9arxteM4k">Holy The Sea (feat. John Gourley and Kris Anaya)</a></span></div>
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12. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBlKWq_lH7s" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Doctor Doctor (feat. Shawn Harris)</a></div>
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13. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2cCDEjUsh4" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">The End And The Beginning (feat. Brendon Urie and Greta Salpeter)</a></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Although I'm providing YouTube links to the songs, I'd strongly suggest you</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>listen to the tracks via Spotify or iTunes as the sound on the YouTube videos</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: xx-small;"><b>is altered in order to avoid copyright issues.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Following this track comes the most frenzied (and perhaps one of the more cheesier) songs on the album, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBlKWq_lH7s">Doctor Doctor (feat. Shawn Harris)</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Only the second post on <a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/">Try The Calamari</a> and already I'm throwing a curve ball your way. That's right, you guessed it! I'm reviewing the rock opera/musical <a href="http://www.raziasshadow.com/">Razia's Shadow</a> by <a href="http://www.raziasshadow.com/">Forgive Durd<span id="goog_509342317"></span><span id="goog_509342318"></span>en</a>!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The writer's of <a href="http://www.raziasshadow.com/">Razia's Shadow</a>, Thomas and Paul Dutton, brought together a slew of extremely talented vocalists to bring to life the story of a world torn apart and the seemingly irreconcilable love of two unlikely companions that brings it back together. <em>Like Romeo and Juliet? </em>No<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">—well, actually, yeah. It's basically how Shakespeare would have written <em>Romeo and Juliet</em> if he had a plethora of psychedelic drugs at his disposal. In all seriousness, though, the story is very original and incredibly in-depth.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Gearing away from my failed attempts at comedy, each vocalist is assigned a character in the musical. The list is as follows:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #666666;">O The Scientist</span> - Casey Crescenzo (<a href="http://www.thedearhunter.com/">The Dear Hunter</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Bawaba Brothers</span> - John Baldwin Gourley (<a href="http://www.portugaltheman.com/">Portugal. The Man</a>), Kris Anaya (<a href="http://www.last.fm/music/An+Angle">An Angle</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Narrator</span> - Aaron Weiss (<a href="http://mewithoutyou.com/">mewithoutYou</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Gargul The Oracle</span> - Danny Stevens (<a href="http://www.victoryrecords.com/theaudition">The Audition</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Toba the Tura</span> - Chris Conley (<a href="http://savestheday.com/">Saves the Day</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Sangara</span> - Daniel Young (<a href="http://www.shopbenchmark.com/thisprovidence">This Providence</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Barayas the Spider</span> - Max Bemis (<a href="http://www.sayanythingmusic.com/">Say Anything</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Princess Anhura</span> - Greta Salpeter (<a href="http://www.thehushsound.com/">The Hush Sound</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Pallis</span> - Brendon Urie (<a href="http://www.panicatthedisco.com/">Panic at the Disco</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">King Malka</span> - Nic Newsham (<a href="http://gatsbysamerican.com/">Gatsbys American Dream</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Doctor Dumaya</span> - Shawn Harris (<a href="http://www.thematches.com/">The Matches</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Nidria</span> - Lizzie Huffman (<a href="http://www.purevolume.com/maninthebluevan">Man in the Blue Van</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Adakias</span> - Thomas Dutton (<a href="http://www.raziasshadow.com/">Forgive Durden</a>)<br /><span style="color: #666666;">Ahrima</span> - Thomas Dutton (<a href="http://www.raziasshadow.com/">Forgive Durden</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now that you've got all of those memorized, let's get on to the music. The album begins with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znHpyf1Lolo">Genesis (feat. Casey Crescenzo)</a>.<em> </em>Yep, the same Casey Crescenzo I raved about in <a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/2013/01/the-dear-hunter-lake-south-river-north.html">my last post</a>. Bells, woodwinds, and a heavy drum leads into the Aaron Weiss' narration which kick-starts the story. Though, in my opinion, his voice wasn't quite cut out for professional storytelling, it does have that deep, flaky sound that is most characteristic of popular narrations <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(What am I talking about?)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. Whether you like it or not, you're going to have to deal with it following most of the tracks.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The next song, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dplymDfXVgY">The Missing Piece (feat. Lizzie Huffman)</a>, leads in with a violin which is later trumped by horns and heavy drum symbols (and even a xylophone!). Lizzie Huffman's vocals are superb and quite beautiful in this track. I'm not debasing Thomas Dutton's voice by any means, but Lizzie truly steals this performance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TenD6C152sU">Life Is Looking Up</a> is a solo performance by Thomas Dutton (his only one of the album). It's a frantic, fast-paced beat which matches the tone of urgency in his voice. This leads into yet another colorful song, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoCdTAbLKws">The Spider and The Lamps (feat. Max Bemis)</a>. Max really conquers the role of the cunning, and deceitful spider. Simply put, his vocals are perfect for the part.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When I first heard the beginning of the next track, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiaZcZf4ENg">Toba The Tura (feat. Chris Conley)</a>, I was a bit wary of Conley's vocals and the pace of the song. However, seconds later the instrumentals became more audible and seemed to weave perfectly in with the tone of his voice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The next two tracks of the album <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3rUy1T0_L0">The Oracle (feat. Danny Stevens)</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ozk4vA-TbUM">A Thousand Year, Minute-Long Intermission (feat. Danny Stevens)</a> drastically reduce the pace of the music but in a way that garners interest. It's through Stevens' soothing vocals that the albums turns over into the next act.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here we are introduced to the character who is to change the outset of this fantasy world. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fk-teoa3xYw">The Exit (feat. Brendon Urie And Dan Young)</a> kind of reminds me of the pinnacle in every Tim Burton film where the main character is subjected to a sing-a-long featuring some sort of group of supernatural beings <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Come on! Stay on topic!)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. Ah, just listen to it, and you'll see.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxJoS9ShSeI">It's True Love (feat. Greta Salpeter)</a> is a celestial ballad featuring, well, Greta Slapeter, as the title suggests. Her voice is like a mixture between a sighing teddy bear and a canary; it's simply wonderful <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Aha! You guys thought I was leading into that overused Step Brothers quote, didn't you?)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. She returns shortly after with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfKq9YhCuMA">Meet The King (feat. Greta Salpeter And Nic Newsham)</a> which is a song that is certainly a unique track in that it comes off as a tad bit sluggish and oafish (In a good way. Just listen for yourself, and you decide how to describe it).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQ9arxteM4k">Holy The Sea (feat. John Gourley and Kris Anaya)</a> has a sound of desperation which transforms into what I can only describe as a tribal/soul vibe.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Following this track comes the most frenzied (and perhaps one of the more cheesier) songs on the album, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBlKWq_lH7s">Doctor Doctor (feat. Shawn Harris)</a>. If there is one song that is reminiscent of a Disney musical, this certainly is it. Shawn Harris becomes immensely in-tune with his character as is apparent in the complete reshaping of his vocals.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Lastly, we're left off with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2cCDEjUsh4">The End And The Beginning (feat. Brendon Urie and Greta Salpeter)</a> which changes tempos as the brothers of the dark, Adakias and Pallis, have their final confrontation. Irrational, ignorant single-mindedness is pitted against love-induced wisdom and acceptance. It is truly an excellent way to close out this exhilarating epic.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In conclusion, this album is a must for musical lovers. It's most certainly the most eccentric and idiosyncratic album I've ever encountered <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (I don't know what any of those words mean)</span><span style="font-size: small;">. Although it's cheesier than Chester Cheetah, the music is superbly orchestrated and the story-line is incredibly easy to follow unlike most concept albums. I'd strongly suggest a listen. Unless, of course, you're in the presence of folks who strongly despise musicals; none of us know what they're truly capable of.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>Final Verdict:</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1WCYk9u9OM3K-F1kDY71ztXtFACNrjoBTerJ3hbthCsPZTEv9OtXVa6PpDudlPp1WNoG6ew4QdJdXqN9dAeZKqo4KePAs2-b2VGKEulmTz4YbwjTO4o9l1o0teBW1X0b-L8Z0E1CUn0k/s1600/4+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1WCYk9u9OM3K-F1kDY71ztXtFACNrjoBTerJ3hbthCsPZTEv9OtXVa6PpDudlPp1WNoG6ew4QdJdXqN9dAeZKqo4KePAs2-b2VGKEulmTz4YbwjTO4o9l1o0teBW1X0b-L8Z0E1CUn0k/s1600/4+Rating+(130x50).png" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">P.S. To view staged plays of the album, look to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a>.</span>Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4459136972257760325.post-8797804917063642062013-01-24T19:16:00.000-08:002013-02-03T09:50:56.072-08:00The Dear Hunter - The Lake South, The River North<br />
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<a href="http://www.absolutepunk.net/gallery/files/2/5/4/4/5/TheDearHunter-Act1TheLakeSouthTheRiverNorth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dear Hunter, The - Act I: The Lake South The River North" border="0" height="316" src="http://www.absolutepunk.net/gallery/files/2/5/4/4/5/TheDearHunter-Act1TheLakeSouthTheRiverNorth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.absolutepunk.net/gallery/misc.php?do=printimage&i=43640">Source</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #999999;">Track Listing:</span></b></div>
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1. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gApD6c58JXk" style="text-align: start;">Battesimo Del Fuoco</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_x5yr9-3PJc" style="text-align: start;">The Lake South</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqQ7kRj-vqY" style="text-align: start;">City Escape</a></div>
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4. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1eyqshJlRs" style="text-align: start;">The Inquiry of Ms. Terri</a></div>
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5. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDbUzmLD_t4" style="text-align: start;">1878</a></div>
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6. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Qs33rTkCQs" style="text-align: start;">The Pimp and the Priest</a></div>
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7. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc8wpurr6Tg" style="text-align: start;">Hands Matched His Tongue</a></div>
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8. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thNzitGxQ9Y" style="text-align: start;">The River North</a></div>
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Welcome to <a href="http://trythecalamari.blogspot.com/">Try The Calamari</a>, a blog devoted to reviewing albums through the eyes of a musically illiterate ninny. And, what better way to kick off the blog than to do a review of an album starring to my all-time favorite band, <a href="http://thedearhunter.com/">The Dear Hunter</a>.</div>
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I'll eventually get around to reviewing all their albums because I'm a certifiably obsessive lunatic. But that's for later, and this is now. Today I will be reviewing the first album to kick off their ongoing saga, <a href="http://www.merchdirect.com/TripleCrownRecords/TheDearHunter/CDs/ActITheLakeSouthTheRiverNorth/?productid=6818">Act 1: The Lake South, The River North</a>.</div>
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This 8 track EP is the beginning of a 6 Act <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(not to be confused with Parliament's Six Acts)</span> story line woven by the exceedingly talented singer and songwriter, Casey Crescenzo. In a turtle shell, the tale follows the trials of young man after the unfortunate passing of his affectionate, prostitute mother. It's an incredibly intricate and gripping story line, so it's best to leave you with nothing more than an extremely brief synopsis <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(if you wind up lost, there are Act summaries online)</span>.<br />
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The EP begins with an acapella performance that forcibly rams its fist down your throat and snatches the air right out of your esophagus. There's no better way to showcase your band's debut other than flexing your vocal cords for the audience. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gApD6c58JXk">Battesimo Del Fuoco</a> is most certainly a force to be reckoned with, but don't think the magic stops there. No-ho-ho, my friends. The show has just begun.<br />
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Despite the aforementioned acapella, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gApD6c58JXk">Battesimo Del Fuoco</a> somehow seamlessly transitions into <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_x5yr9-3PJc">The Lake South</a>, an instrumental heavy on brass and violin <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Take your best stab because I don't know the specific instruments)</span>.<br />
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Following the mysterious and carnivalesque instrumental, <a href="http://thedearhunter.com/">The Dear Hunter</a> finally reveals its true colors in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqQ7kRj-vqY">City Escape</a>. This song rings in with a stampede of furiosity as instruments are orchestrated in crushing unison. Casey brings out the full range of his vocals in this song, forcing his unique voice upon the listeners <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(in the most sexual way imaginable)</span>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1eyqshJlRs">The Inquiry of Ms. Terri</a> gives your eardrums the well-needed rest after the intensity of the previous song. Well, for a short time, anyway. Starting at about 1:50 the song reverts to the epic audibles your eardrums were so recently subjected to; it's simply delightful.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDbUzmLD_t4">1878</a> has a similar structure as <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1eyqshJlRs">The Inquiry of Ms. Terri</a> in terms of alternating tempos, but with more celestial breakdowns and <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(what I believe) </span><span style="font-size: small;">a jazzy undertone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Moving on, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Qs33rTkCQs">The Pimp and the Priest</a> returns to the carnivalesque sound similar to that in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_x5yr9-3PJc">The Lake South</a>, but with added versatile vocals and easy-to-follow, dark lyrics. You may need some aid in deciphering some of the earlier songs, but you're likely to follow this one along quite well.</span><br />
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Next in line is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc8wpurr6Tg">Hands Matched His Tongue</a>, which starts off mellow with the acoustic guitar and Casey's voice playing over subtle background vocals and various instruments. Halfway through the song, the background sounds come to life and combine with the lead singer's voice and guitar.<br />
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The closing of the EP is very intriguing even though it's simply a piano solo. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thNzitGxQ9Y">The River North</a> is somewhat of a haunting melody, but it gives off the impression of an intermission of sorts. It's as if the band is saying there is more to come <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(in which case there most certainly is).</span><br />
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In closing, this album's cerebral vocals, alternating tempos, and intense instrumentals require your utmost attention, and I suggest you give it more than your average <em>listen</em>. Otherwise, I'd be forced to come to your house, pop my trunk, take out my semi-automatic typewriter, and write you a vexing letter. On second thought, it's totally up to you. No threats are being promised this early in the blog development process.<br />
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<b>Final Verdict:</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16PIkjAl659Atgc4GC4TY-CKl0jtfGftadQ3mJxK7s_WxJDt9iBTMA0k4PI7Mquy7tNePgBCVlkxAWsJjyiBRvtnkOsTT_yHxW2cIEnOHLIKnvkWfb9l1FXgWoAjIxhlGdCcRN_YHVXo/s1600/4.5+Rating+(130x50).png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16PIkjAl659Atgc4GC4TY-CKl0jtfGftadQ3mJxK7s_WxJDt9iBTMA0k4PI7Mquy7tNePgBCVlkxAWsJjyiBRvtnkOsTT_yHxW2cIEnOHLIKnvkWfb9l1FXgWoAjIxhlGdCcRN_YHVXo/s1600/4.5+Rating+(130x50).png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Oh, yeah. I rate albums using droplets of squid ink. That's a 4.5 if you're wondering.</span><br />
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P.S. Look for <a href="http://thedearhunter.com/">The Dear Hunter</a>'s new album, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5JUvK5LyqUY">Migrant</a>, coming April 2nd, 2013.Chizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00278752118665353147noreply@blogger.com8