For a band seemingly known for their one and only good song - the done and re-done "Boston" (originally off 2003's "Midwest Skies and Sleepless Mondays" and rehashed in 2006's "All The Stars And Boulevards"), Augustana must be silently hoping that their new album "Can't Love, Can't Hurt" provides some respite.
The truth is, Augustana have probably been unfairly dealt a bad hand with "Boston" receiving such wide publicity, because the rest of their stuff off both their previous records is actually pretty good.
Folkish, poppish, melodious and extremely heartfelt - Augustana are one of those "safe" piano bands who seem to have gotten the balance just right. Lead single "Sweet and Low" has that wonderful sing-a-long vibe to it that you'll probably give in to while driving. Ditto the catchy "I Still Ain't Over You" and "Meet You There".
There are plenty of nice moments from this album, making it thoroughly listenable. One of the album's stellar moment comes when Dan Layus' glass-like, trembling voice holds the final note to "Fire" when he belts out: Desire taking me so much higher / and leaving me home. Both band and listener are stuck in that little warp where mortal frailty and lustful desire are encapsulated in a brief 15 second burst.
I came online hoping to write a review for Death Cab for Cutie's "Narrow Stairs" and/or Gavin DeGraw's self titled album, and instead felt so compelled to write something about this wonderful band from San Diego.
"Can't Love, Can't Hurt" is nowhere as edgy and gritty as "All The Stars And Boulevards", but instead seems more mature and brings into play more sincere, warm and somber undertones. It is probably best listened to enjoying a cup of hot chocolate next to a warm fireplace (ahh the pitfalls of living in Singapore), and actually grows on you the more spins you give it.
Rating: 8.5/10
If you liked this, you should listen to: The New York Fund
For those living under a rock for the last few years, here's Boston:
No comments:
Post a Comment