The Berlin Project: "The Things We Say" (Sept. 2)
The Berlin Project released their first CD in over two years on Sept. 2. They have put a lot of writing and hard work into each song on "The Things We Say," and believe that this album is edgier than their previous records. The pop melodies and hooks are still there, but the music is much more rock-oriented. The Berlin Project has a mainstream sound that is comparable to The Ataris, The Juliana Theory and New Found Glory. "The Things We Say" has a lot of energy, but lacks a certain polish that is displayed by their comparable radio bands. The album is mediocre for the most part, but does have a few very enjoyable songs, most notably the title track.
Grade: C-
Common Rotation: "The Big Fear" (Aug. 12)
"The Big Fear" is a perfect example of an album that does not rely on one or two hit songs for its success, but thrives as a whole. With an add date to press almost a month later than its label release date, Common Rotation's latest work truly portrays the band's talent and creativity. Each song has its own sound, making it very difficult to place the band in one specific genre. Songs on the album show a wide range of flavor comparable to Bob Marley, SUM 41, and every band in between. With punchy lyrics and catchy rhythm, Common Rotation's songs each have a unique sound that is possibly too mature for the radio. The album ends with a hidden track, a seven-minute acoustic tune that is more a poem than a song.
Grade: A-
1-4 the Ditch: "DIN" (independent disc with no official release)
1-4 the ditch is a three-member band that formed right here in the band factory that is the city of Buffalo. Two months after their beginning the trio has compiled their first release, a six song EP titled "DIN." This achievement displays the passion and intensity apparent in each track on "DIN". With a ripe alternative rock sound and a splash of punk, influence by bands such as Nirvana, the Pixies and Weezer is clearly noticeable. The band's infancy is apparent, but the CD is enjoyable. "DIN" creates interest in later work from the group.
Grade: C-
Eastmountainsouth: "Eastmountainsouth" (June 17)
Eastmountainsouth's first CD under the Dreamworks label is not exactly fresh on store shelves, but is receiving significant airplay as of late; a true late-bloomer. The 15-song disc features a wide range of songs from members Kat Maslich and Peter Adams. The duo can best be described as a converging of two artists comparable to Damien Rice and Jewel. Songs on the album are almost equally balanced between those that feature piano and those that feature guitar. For the most part, Maslich is the lead vocalist in the piano tracks and Adams usually sings along with the guitar. This gives the album a sort of "couples appeal." Driving with a lady friend is easier when the whiny girl tunes are on the same disc as the whiny guy songs. There is also a religious element to the record with many references to rivers, the soul and finding one's self. The album as a whole is of the easy listening variety: pleasant and comforting rhythms along with equally pleasing lyrics.
Grade: B-
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
