THRICE- Beggars

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As a reviewer, I must try my best to give a fair and balanced judgment to any and all of the material that I come across. With that said, Thrice is a band that I’ve been interested in throughout the last few years and even had the privilege of seeing them live in concert three times, both as a band and Dustin Kensrue’s solo work. However, I feel that despite prior fandom, just album should not pull my bias as this album is unlike any previously released Thrice album.

On another note, to date this album has only been released on iTunes. The band has stated that the physical release will have extra tracks and other miscellaneous material. That extra material will not be included in this interview. Thank you.

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Band Bio

Name: Thrice

Genre: Alternative Rock, Experimental rock, Post-hardcore, Melodic hardcore

Members: Dustin Kensrue, Teppei Teranishi, Eddie Breckenridge, Riley Breckenridge

Hometown: Irvine, California

Formed: 1998

Album Overview

Beggars is the sixth studio from Thrice. The album features the original band members as the band’s lineup has never changed. Beggars was also recorded in guitarist Teppei Teranishi’s garage.

1. “All the World Is Mad”   3:59

2. “The Weight”   5:00

3. “Circles”   4:19

4. “Doublespeak”   4:51

5. “In Exile”   3:53

6. “At the Last”   4:05

7. “Wood & Wire”   4:10

8. “Talking Through Glass / We Move Like Swing Sets”   4:30

9. “The Great Exchange”   3:33

10. “Beggars”   5:24

Review

Right from the beginning, listeners are greeted with a driving guitar riff and almost trademark Dustin Kensrue gruff vocals, however, if you’ve have listened to Thrice before, you might soon realize that the tone of this album isn’t exactly what you may be accustom to. Although the album includes many familiar aspects, it seems to take a step back from the higher energy albums such as Vheissu or The Illusion of Safety and offers a bit more of the tone that was experimented with in some of the Alchemy Index albums. Water and Air of the Alchemy series seems to lend character to Beggars as it has the drive of earlier albums, but presents a mellower, more melodic approach. Nonetheless, Beggars truly shows off the wide spectrum of Thrice’s ability and makes use of contrast to emphasize that point. Diversity also plays a huge part in the character of this album. Beggars brings together everything that the band former tones and acts like a melting pot catering to the full range of Thrice fans.

Beggars feature a few songs with more of the band’s original sound. “All the World Is Mad” really sets the album off on the right foot and the following track, “The Weight”, packs the one-two punch. Later on, “At the Last” brings the tempo back up and carries plenty of energy combining edgier instrumentals with melodic vocals in the verse and powerful choruses. “Talking Through Glass / We Move Like Swing Sets” is the last song that I believe has that former charm. The fluid moving guitar riffs and wicked drumming come together to create the classic Thrice epic, which moves into the calmer vocal part to end the on a more peaceful tone. I feel these songs are truer to Thrice’s early sound and I am more drawn to them because that fact, yet these are not the only good track on the record.

Contrasting the vigorous, more up beat songs, you find the softer side of the album. This is first experienced in the song “Circles”, a slower piece with a long instrumental outro that emphasizes the band’s instrumental talents. “Wood and Wire” is next in the more passive, melodic tunes. It is the first of the album to feature dual, harmonizing vocals, which lends the ballad such a collected and refined feeling of tranquility. “The Great Exchange” brings back the low-key spirit after the driving “Talking Through Glass” with a steady drum line under an almost dreamy guitar riff and wispy vocals . Finishing off the album is the title track “Beggars”. The emotions run high in this final push towards the end. Listeners can feel the anguished and strain expressed through both the lyrics and vocals as the message of the record, “We are beggars all”, is forced home. In my opinion, this is one of the better tracks on the album and a great closer.

Adding to the diversity, you’ve got what I would call the “in between” songs. These songs can’t quite be put into the two previous categories and have a tone that shows sort of where the band’s sound has been drifting. I speak of the songs “Doublespeak” and “In Exile”. In all honesty, to me, these songs have a pop like quality. It doesn’t necessarily take away from their value, but it’s just different. However, they are no surprise seeing as how the band is maturing with tastes and direction always changing. It’s a side that I never expected to hear upon my first listen of The Artist in the Ambulance.

Verdict

Beggars is a highly diverse, highly contrasting album that shows off Thrice’s wide range of talents. Thrice fans of any merit will find something that they can enjoy. Overall, the album was an easy listen with good replay value. It could very well be a top contender for the best album of 2009, but that is beyond the scope of this review. However, some of the slow parts were a little too slow more my taste and the pop-esque songs just didn’t quite meet my needs. The instrumentation and lyrics were deep and enjoyable, although, I can’t say the same for the vocals. This is not Dustin Kensrue’s best work by any means.

Favorite Songs: “Wood & Wire”, “Talking Through Glass / We Move Like Swing Sets”, “Beggars”

Least Favorite Songs: “Doublespeak”, “The Great Exchange”

Rating

8 out of 10

DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE- Narrow Stairs

Death Cab for Cutie is an American indie pop rock band from Washington state. Since forming in 1997, the band has released seven studio albums. Similar artists include The Postal Service (featuring Ben Gibbard, the front man for both bands), The Shins, Bright Eyes, The Demeberists, and Snow Patrol if they were American. Their sound has always carried the classic indie, or independent, feel and has been characterized as melodic, melancholy, and whispery. Gibbard lends his vulnerable, tenor voice to the music of lofty guitar and gentle piano to create a unique audio pleasure. (Okay, so this review may be a little bias.)

Narrow Stairs plays a bit differently than previous albums. If anything, it sounds more along the lines of their early work such as the album You Can Play This Songs With Chords. The two albums before this, Transatlanticism and Plans, seemed to focus more on a melodic feel whereas Narrow Stairs explores more of the musical spectrum. The band utilizes a few different styles and incorporates many audio additions to provide the extra push to rely the message. I’ll go into more detail about that later. The album turns haunting at points (in the best way possible, mind you) and at times I’m reminded of Radiohead and their sound with the flowing, yet gripping guitar lines. Lyrics have still remained true to Death Cab’s deep, thought provoking, and well illustrated style that often paints a picture in the listeners mind. But, despite the lyrical consistence, the album’s tone is brighter and upbeat giving it a dark vs. light scenario. Instrumentals supply a happier sound while the lyrics may paint a darker picture.

This albums requires at least two listens gain the full experience. Upon first listen, the instrumentals are pleasing, yet they make it easy to overlook the song’s meaning and message playing into the dark vs. light situations mentioned above. For example, the song No Sunlight caters to a pop sound with a catchy verse/chorus combination and the repeating of the line “No sunlight, no sunlight.” Although the song sounds cheery it actually tells of a boy’s lose of innocence as he moves into adulthood. However, non-vocal elements play a critical role in songs such as Pity and Fear. As the track progresses it communicates to the listener that the singer finds himself next to an angry stranger who ends up pushing him off a cliff. With the last line “I remember the push, not the fall” the instruments take control in accounting the subject’s fall only to be abruptly cut short to symbolize a crash landing into a ravine. 

Beginning and ending solid leaves only one place for the album’s weakness. Starting strong with Bixby Canyon Bridge, recalling the subject’s search for Jack Kerouac’s inspiration in California’s Big Sur, followed by the first single, I Will Posses Your Heart, and two other solid track, the record gives way to Talking Bird. Being slower than most other songs of the album it seems to drag and doesn’t seem to be able to deliver what the other track do.  Short after, though, the slack is picked up by the short lived You Can Do Better Than Me. Pace is restored and the album is back in track all the way through the end, which awaits the best song on the album, in my opinion. The Ice Is Getting Thinner is simple and easily understood and it tells a tale a past love. Two people, who presumably have had some connection in the past, find themselves at a point where they both know the relationship is over with this being the final goodbye. A beautifully crafted song with a strong underlaying emotion providing the record with a sense of completion.

The album grows on you. As you understand the songs more, the more will will get from them and the more you will enjoy. I believe that the style change suited the band well and furnishes a well thought out and moving piece of work. Death Cab fans will find pleasure even though the sound isn’t what they are accustom to. For people with zune passes, I would recommend this album if you are looking for something new and fresh.

Overall, I feel Narrow Stairs deserves a 9 out of 10. Listeners of all types will find something they like rather it’s deep lyrics or flat out astounding instruments. A good buy in my book.

Links:
Offical site
Myspace

JACK JOHNSON- Sleeping Through The Static

Sleeping Through the Static
Artist Background:
Jack Johnson is a Hawaiian-born musician known for an acoustic or folk style with the use of acoustic guitar, ukulele, and piano. Johnson is one of this generation’s more well known song-writers, but his attributions don’t stop at making music. He is also a filmmaker contributing to the surf films Thicker Than Water and The September Sessions. On top of all that, he is a surfer and a skater.

The Album:
Sleeping Through the Static marks Johnson’s fifth studio record and with this one being recorded in LA, it is the first to not be made in Hawaii. Being released in early February, 2008, it has climbed to the number one spot on the US Billboard 200 and hold its spot for the past three weeks.

1. “All At Once”
2. “Sleep Through the Static”*
3. “Hope”
4. “Angel”
5. “Enemy”
6. “If I Had Eyes”*
7. “Same Girl”
8. “What You Thought You Need”
9. “Adrift”
10. “Go On “
11. “They Do, They Don’t”
12. “While We Wait”
13. “Monsoon”
14. “Losing Keys”

*= Denotes singles

My Thoughts:
Before listening to this album, I had listened to his earlier records and expected much of the same. I had heard people saying that he took a more blues approach. So, I decided to have a listen for myself.

The album starts out with “All At Once.” This is a classic example of Jack Johnson’s song writing. It’s just a much laid back sound with the deep lyrics. “Sometimes it feels the heart is no place to be singing from at all.” This opening song sets the mood for the rest of the album.

Following up is the records first single “Sleep through the static.” It’s typical for Johnson with the groovy beat and vocals, but this song gives us something that we haven’t seen from Johnson before; politics. It’s not just a lyric or two here and there, it’s in the basis of the chorus, which is slow, and different from the rest of the song. This ensures that his message stands out. In my opinion, it’s a bold move for someone who hasn’t been very voiced in the past, but with all the anti-war messages from everywhere else, I don’t think the listeners will think much of it. Track 3, “Hope”, continues with the upbeat guitar and piano and will probably make you want to bob your head or dance a little.

“Angel” comes in next with soft acoustic, low vocals, and a bit a backup piano. It is a very simple song and that make it what it is. The simplicity of the instrumentals accents the lyrics and the message of love that Johnson is portraying when describing his angel, as the song title suggests. It is the type of song you’ll want to listen to more than once.

Next up is “Enemy.” Same as before. The melodic guitar riffs and soothing vocals. At this point, I’m wanting something that I’ve come to love in Jack Johnson, tempo. I kid, but like I said in the beginning, he took a slower approach with this record. The start of track 6 is what I’m talking about. The lively up strokes and down strokes from a palm muted guitar and a steady drum beat in the back. The song embodies the sound that fans have come to enjoy. This is probably the reason for this song being a single.

The next three songs keep with the album’s flow and tone. Quite laid back and relaxing to an extent. Respectively, each song is worth listening to, but there is nothing too extraordinary to be noted about them. “Go On” breaks this pattern and brings back the presence of the drum beat provided that steady beat. “They Do, They Don’t” also follows this as well as track 13, “Monsoon.”

“While We Wait” utilizes the use of dual vocals. Of course, both voices our Johnson’s, but the harmony is pleasing and gives the song that extra “oomph.” Although the song is the shortest on the album, don’t over look it. This may be one of the better songs on the record.

The album ends with the song “Losing Keys.” As the first song set the mood, this finishes it up. It gives that slowed down touch and is accompanied with a very catchy vocal line as in fades out and ends the album. Not so much of the “period” at the end as I had hoped for.

The Verdict:
Sleep Through the Static is a fairly good album despite the fact that it is unlike any other Jack Johnson album. This album shows Johnson’s raw talent and emotion. Although it is different, I believe that the true Jack Johnson fans will enjoy the record. It’s not bad, it’s just something unfamiliar.

Favorite Song: “Angel”
Least Favorite Song: “Same Girl”

The Ups:
Johnson is a very talented artist with deep, sometimes inspiring, lyrics. The songs are easy to listen to and provide those relaxing songs for one of those days then you just need something to chill to.

The Downs:
With previous experience with Johnson’s work, the album makes me want something more out of the album. Something that isn’t there. It isn’t a big problem, but at times I wanted to switch albums and listen to “Banana Pancakes” or “Bubble Toes.”

The Grade:
7.5 out of 10

PARAMORE- Roit!

RIOT!
Background:
Paramore started in 2004 out of the town of Franklin, Tennessee. The bands sound is a mixture of pop and rock/punk. The vocals are quite distinct with Hayley Williams’ in control of the microphone with the ever so often boy/girl harmony parts with the help of Josh Farro. The instrumentals capitalize of the use of the power chord and catchy lead riffs giving the music’s pop feel. A big drum sound and firm, sometimes Pat Benatar-esque vocals provide the punk side of the equation. Other musical groups such as No Doubt, Jimmy Eat World, and Sunny Day Real Estate have been credited with influencing the band’s songwriting. Similar artists include Panic! At The Disco, October Fall, Cute Is What We Aim For, and A Cursive Memory.  

The Album:
Riot! is Paramore’s second studio album after 2005’s Formation and All We Know Is Falling. The name came from the band’s description of the album as: 
“A sudden outburst of uncontrolled emotion.”

1. “For a Pessimist, I’m Pretty Optimistic”
2. “That’s What You Get”
3. “Hallelujah”*
4. “Misery Business”*
5. “When It Rains”
6. “Let the Flames Begin”
7. “Miracle”
8. “Crushcrushcrush”*
9. “We Are Broken”
10. “Fences”
11. “Born for This”

*= Denotes singles
Where to freely obtain this album: Link to illegal Download Removed ~Jay
My thoughts:
“For a Pessimist, I’m Pretty Optimistic” provides the album with a very strong start giving you a good idea of what the rest of the album is to bring. The opening riff captures you right off the bat. This song keeps you listening with the musical ups and downs such as the on and off guitar during the verses and in the pre-chorus. With the chorus comes the definite understand of what drives this song. “I put my faith in you, so much faith, And then you just threw it away” adds that teenage, female type angst giving the song much more emotion, making it better in my opinion.

Tracks two, three, and four keep with the same hype and emotion as the first keeping the album steady. “Hallelujah” allows Williams to show off her vocal range in the midst of palm muted guitars and symbol crushes while “Misery Business” shows off more of her punk side. Breaking from the edginess of the previous songs, a reggae-like guitar starts off “When It Rains”. This gives way to present the laid back, more pop, sound of Paramore. Softer, less angry sounding lyrics let you hear the full talent of Williams. “Let The Flames Begin” pick up right where the first five tracks left off. The format of this song briefly reminds me of “That’s What You Get”, track two. It seems as though techniques get recycled from early with the drummer playing right on the beat over a muted guitar. This also seems to be the case for “Miracle” and “crushcrushcrush” making the songs sound more alike as the album progresses. Maybe it’s just a style thing I’m not getting. “We Are Broken” takes after “When It Rains” with the softer feel, but the addition of the piano and the almost heavenly sounding back up vocals in the later part of the song set it apart. “Fences” is packed with energy and convey a sound like Panic! At The Disco or The Hush Sound. Very upbeat and makes you want to dance. With a strong beginning comes an even stronger finish. “Born For This” is the last hurrah with the riot-like vocals throughout and the powerful guitar. The album goes out with a punch.

The Verdict:
At first, I was a little reluctant about this album, before listening to it that is. I really hadn’t heard anything from Paramore before getting this album, so I didn’t quite know what to expect. I’m not too big on the lead female vocals and a bright pop sound. Pop is not really my style. Nevertheless, the album was somewhat of a surprise as I was able to listen to the entire album and even enjoy it which would be difficult for me with any other pop record. I’ll be looking forward to their third album.

Favorite Song: “Fences”
Least Favorite Song: “That’s What You Get”/ “Miracle”

The Ups:
The album is strong and consistent. The songs have an awesome blend with the female vocals, mighty guitar sounds, and flashy drums. Hayley Williams does what she does best with the lyrics and the vocals pushing the music to a high level.

The Downs:
Recycled song formating and technique make the songs have a similar sound, as mentioned above. It is almost predictable. The song starts out with a catchy guitar riff and crashing drums underneath. As the verse starts, the guitar drops down to a palm muted rhythm with the drums provide the steady beat. This is followed by a big change as the singer belts out the chorus. Repeat a time or two and end the song. Seems too formulated for my taste and is typical of a band that gets so big this early in their career.

The Grade:
7 out of 10

An Introduction

Hello music world.

My name is Drake Wilbanks and welcome you to Willy Reviews where I give my two cents on different albums and artists throughout the music scene, past and present. I believe that music can be an important part to anyone’s life and that it should be shared and discussed. Please take time to read reviews and offer suggestions for any album or artist you would like to see reviewed. Suggestions help me out greatly because reviewing my own music may get old after a while.

Since I haven’t done a review in almost a year, I will start this blog out with albums I’ve reviewed in the past. Some were picked by me, some were picked by others. Either way, I hope it will give you a look at what to expect in the near future.

Thank you,
Willy