The bizarrely titled 'Abandon' stand at a decisive point in their musical career. This five track EP shows that they certainly have the raw talent to become household names. However many other bands have been in similar positions in the past, but opted to produce marketable and undynamic records that sell many copies but lack the quality to endure.
The EP opens with the stunning 'Providence', which gets under the skin almost instantaneously with an incredibly catchy chorus and lyrics that bristle with energy. The song sounds like something that The Killers might produce, and this can only be... Read More The bizarrely titled 'Abandon' stand at a decisive point in their musical career. This five track EP shows that they certainly have the raw talent to become household names. However many other bands have been in similar positions in the past, but opted to produce marketable and undynamic records that sell many copies but lack the quality to endure.
The EP opens with the stunning 'Providence', which gets under the skin almost instantaneously with an incredibly catchy chorus and lyrics that bristle with energy. The song sounds like something that The Killers might produce, and this can only be seen as a positive thing.
Unfortunately, the rest of the EP doesn't quite match up to this fresh and exhilarating opener, although there are several positive points. 'Be Alive In Me' sees the lyrics take a turn for the generic, but has a great Switchfoot sounding tune. 'Here Waiting' could easily be mistaken for a Killers b-side, featuring an infectious chorus and an upbeat tempo.
However, 'All Because Of You' is a prime example of the kind of material that, if produced regularly, could cause Abandon to fade into obscurity. It's a pleasant enough song on the surface, but it completely kills the momentum of the EP, meandering slowly to uninspiring lyrics, before they change key and dig out the ol' gospel choir and string section. Its inclusion is the central reason why the EP never quite reaches greatness.
But on the whole, this record ebbs creativity and passion, and shows enormous potential for the future. In five years time, we will either all be singing the praises of the new Switchfoot, or wondering what happened to that band with the silly name.
Review by J Alexander.
Rating 4 out 5 Stars Stand Out Tracks
Providence
Be Alive In Me
Here Waiting
