sloan - pretty together
a name from a few years ago, this lot were originally hyped a bit at the height of grunge and released 'smeared' on a major label .. while that album was a decent enough slice of alt rock there was obviously more to the band than just churning out sub standard grungle-lite.
now several years later i find this album which was released on the bands own label. a little research indicates that the band have forged a formidable following back in their home canada - never a prerequisite for critical respect from many areas of the world.
the cover shot of the band gives many clues. the sepia tinted band photo over laying a gorgeous sunset. hmmmm .. shall we expect soaring melodies, upbeat power pop guitar grooves, all done in with style and passion ?
cos thats what we get - in exclesis ..
opener 'if it feels good do it' is a rocker by the rest of the album standards, and is a good start. the rest of the album flows by and makes you swoon, smile, drift off to warmer climates. emotions are indeed moved when certain chord changes interact with the vocal harmonies, and the delicate guitar lines.
admittedly there is nothing overly original or unique within these sunkissed grooves .. but then i dont think that the band are wanting to challenge the status quo of their sound now.
does exactly as its shows on the cover ..