Gratitude
features
Jonah Matranga
, the creative force behind
Onelinedrawing
and former frontman of
Far
, as well ex-
Crumb
guitarist
Mark Weinberg
.
Matranga
has said he suspended
because of its
emo
perceptions, and that's obvious in
's straightforward, rewarding songwriting. It's
Weezer
(
"Drive Away"
), latter-day
Jimmy Eat World
"This Is the Part"
), and even
U2
"Greatest Wonder"
) that they have in mind -- bands that fuse their turns of emotion to satisfying electric guitar crunch instead of the melodrama and wandering song structures of
isn't a risk taker. It doesn't pierce the brain with
post-hardcore
stickpins, nor are its lyrics burdened with flowery language. "This is the part where we start to feel better, and stop shutting up" -- it wants to comfort, but also entertain, and do it all with recognizable elements.
's past projects touch the album here and there, but the meat of it comes from reliable guitar hooks and pleasantly romantic lyrics. And that's exciting, because it makes
sound like an early-'80s
pop
band built for 21st century ears.
"Sadie"
starts out with a quiet piano figure, but instead of dwelling in the shadows it transforms into a pogo-worthy rocker.
"Another Division St."
adds swooning synths to its melodic
indie
groove, and
"Begin Again"
closes -- naturally -- with the repetition of its rousing electric guitar melody. Albums sometimes have agendas, just like the tag of a particular scene can color a band's intent.
's debut has none of that -- it's crazy to say it, but this record just keeps it real. ~ Johnny Loftus