 | Artist: Saosin |
BSTscore: 88
When I think of Saosin, I always scratch my head a bit. I've never seen a group explode to prominence with one EP, and I've never seen a group maintain said prominence over a span of three years with only one EP. That, however, is Saosin in summation.
Maybe it's because the EP, Translating the Name, has a great sound. Imagine screamo with a dash of post-hardcore and a sprinkle of pop. It's an aurally addictive combination—a recipe destined for success.
Count me as a fan. I, along with many others, clamored for the long-anticipated self-titled new album.
Saosin is solid. Notwithstanding the mostly never-heard-of and relatively unsubstantial Saosin EP, this release marks Saosin's major label debut, and it shows. It's got a few too many layers of polish, which takes some of the edge off the sound. "Bury Your Head," for example, is the overly made up twin of the more naturally beautiful original demo. Which brings me to the other issue I have with Saosin. It's a glorfied b-sides album. "Sleepers, "Come Close," "I Never Wanted To," "Follow and Feel," "Bury your Head," and "You're Not Alone" have been previously recorded in some other form. While most of these are good, particularly "Sleepers," the inclusion of the tracks take away from the album's novelty.
Some of the new songs are welcomed additions. "Collapse" and "Voices" are the standouts. "Voices," is a true triumph, standing as the flagship song on this release. The track showcases Saosin's remarkable ability to create catchy songs laced with memorable melodies, fast pacing, and tight musicianship. "Voices" is Saosin at its best and signals the arrival of Cove Reber, the band's new singer.
Reber's vocals marry nicely to the music. While many still prefer the band's previous singer, Anthony Green (now with Circa Survive), my problem does not lie with Reber's voice. It lies with his songwriting. Reber's lyrics are basic and boring, and they bring little to the music.
The musicianship is excellent, as expected from Saosin. The drums have been downplayed, but still provide plenty of that signature percussive punch. The guitars are great as well. Just listen to the end of "Collapse" to get a taste of the instruments in harmonious action. The mastering process relegated the bass lines to a nearly non-existent role, which is unfortunate. But the drums and guitars are so good, I barely noticed.
Overall, Saosin is Saosin. Aside from the forgettable lyrics and lack of new songs, I recommend this album.
Musicianship: 95
Vocals: 80
Creativity: 80
Impact: 95
Favorite Song: “Voices”
1 comment:
Polished is right...maybe a hint of mormon flare thrown in there...
hey boys...
Id like to see yall's take on Between the Buried and Me's most recent release "Colors" I can tell you right now musicianship is 100% and I loved every minute of it. By far their most well rounded release.
-DW-
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