Corine's CD Capsules

Corine's CD Capsules

CORINE’S CAPSULES

CAPSULE REVIEWS OF NEW MUSIC

by CORINE JURGERSON

MATCHBOX ROMANCE

“Voices”

(Epitaph Records)

Why you might love it:

Matchbook Romance exude emotions. Voices, the second album from this power rock / emo band is easy on the ears and could easily become a favorite in your record collection.

The band’s sound is very concise and almost rivals that of an orchestra, with continually changing instrumental parts. The no-holds barred, emotional vocals by Andrew Jordan power each track from beginning to end and harmonize smoothly with the other band member’s backing vocals. Instrumentally and vocally, these guys have got it.

If they work on developing a ‘stand-out’ style, similar to what My Chemical Romance has done with their image, these guys will shoot straight to the top.

Why you might hate it:

Although Matchbook Romance is a great band, after a while, all of the tracks on the album start to sound the same, a trap that many great bands seem to have been falling into lately.

If you’re not into the whole emo/power rock scene, this might not be for you. However, if you give these guys a chance, you just might like what you hear.

I think there is genuine talent here that has the potential to develop into something more than just an “emo” band.

Overall Grade: B+

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THE LASHES

“Get It”

(Red Ink / Columbia Records)

Why you might love it:

What’s not to love about the punky/new wave sound of The Lashes, a band whose sound can best be described as The Cars meet The Ramones.

The Lashes are unlike anything else to come out of Seattle, bringing a funky, pop/punk flair to table. Their songs are so unbelievably catchy you’ll be stuck singing them for days, and don’t be surprised if you find you have the urge to stand up and dance. It’s nice to hear a little of that new-wave style making a comeback.

Why you might hate it:

There is definitely a retro-feel with this band, and although that is what makes them so endearing, it may be a turnoff for those who wish that the eighties, and punk for that matter, would just go away.

The Lashes are easy to listen to, so if you are into more of a hardcore sound, I would not recommend picking up this album.

Overall Grade: B

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the apparitions

“as this is futuristic”

(Machine Records)

Why you might love it:

The apparitions are delicious. I don’t mean that in a physical way, although I must admit that these five guys hold their own in the looks department.

This pop-rock band is best described as a cross between The Pixies and The Flaming Lips, and I also pick up a bit of a Sister Hazel/Barenaked Ladies edge. The band has that signature ‘college radio’ sound that could result in selling millions of records. Just look at The Dave Matthews Band.

There is also a very slight element of country, which could simply be due to the fact that the band is actually from Kentucky.

The best thing about this album is its energy. From front to back, the album just keeps moving – never boring the listener. It’s fun, it’s upbeat, it’s bubbly without being irritating. Yes, it is that good, and that is why you should check it out now!

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Why you might hate it:

Some people don’t tend to go for this type of music because they feel that it is too ‘folky’. Perhaps in accordance with the name of the album, the record also has somewhat of a ‘futuristic’ feel, which may cause some people to shy away.

Again, this is not something that metal fans or hardcore punk fans will enjoy, but if your taste falls somewhere in the middle between rock and country, you may want to consider adding to your collection.

Overall Grade: A

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CORINE’S Grading Scale

A+ - Gotta Have It! Run out and buy this NOW!

A - Outstanding! Something you owe yourself to hear.

B - Good stuff! Grab it at your convenience.

C - Not bad! Check it out on a rainy day…

D - Probably not one of the best choices out there…

F - Ouch! Someone recorded this? Avoid at all costs!!!

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