Indie Picks: A Year or Two In Review
Kye Kye - Young Love
Kye Kye are a band of harmonious melody, to sum it up in a few words. The Northwestern four piece plays a mix of experimental and indie music, creating an amalgam of electronic soundscapes, soothing vocals, and catchy drum loops. On their latest album, Young Love, the band have crafted a truly unique expression of faith and love, all wrapped up in the album's 11 songs. The strong opener, "Reach," sets an ambient pace, which is then followed by looped beats and electronics, along with vocalist Olga's delicate voice, which especially shines on the delightful, acoustic-driven "Rooftops." Young Love is a highly recommended album if you are into bands such as Future of Forestry and perhaps The Ember Days, and you can also catch Kye Kye live this spring, on tour with John Mark McMillan.
From Indian Lakes - The Man With Wooden Legs
From Indian Lakes have undoubtedly been one of my favorite bands over the past year, after discovering their late 2009 release The Man With Wooden Legs. The Californian quintet plays a fresh, edgy, and sometimes calming brand of indie rock, that is to be marveled at. Vocalist Joey Vannucci's lyrics are very introspective, and show wisdom and honesty beyond his age, and his range consists of anywhere from soft falsettos to near screams. "I Have No Answers" and "We Are Invincible" show off the more vibrant side of From Indian Lakes, full of fluid guitar riffs, and remarkable percussion, while tunes such as "Away!" and "I Am Aware" reveal the band's softer side, with equally as much passion (the band also released an acoustic EP last fall, which can be streamed here). The Man With Wooden is truly a hidden gem, and an album that will be sure to stick with its listener over the years. If that isn't enough, the band have a new, full length album coming out this year, which is certainly much anticipated.
Quiet Science - Dark Words on Dark Wings
Quiet Science hail out of Florida, and are an alternative/glam rock trio. Dusting over intense drums and echoing guitars are heavy doses of synths, adding something unique to the songs. Throughout the 10 song venture of Dark Words on Dark Wings, the band explore themes of finding hope in dark times, and fighting the good fight. The album's lead single, "Runner," is oh so catchy, and the chorus will be sure to hook any listener, unknowingly, while "A Dying Breed" has an aggressive drive to it, and harmonies between lead vocalist Mark Nathan and Daisy Elisabeth. "A Feast For Crows" is another one of the album's strongest points, littered with danceable electronics, and swooning vocals. If you're looking for some catchy, passionate alternative rock, and perhaps enjoy synth-heavy songs from the 80s, then Quiet Science might just be the band you are looking for. Also, be sure to check out their debut album as well, 2010's [With/Without].
Theatre Breaks Loose - Stranger Places, Greater Things
Playing an energetic blend of alternative pop rock is Theatre Breaks Loose, from Oklahoma City. The band just released their new EP, Stranger Places, Greater Things, this past November, and it shows some good potential from a young band. The band have not one, but two vocalists, which are backed by crisp guitars, and lyrics full of love, hopes, and dreams. The EP's closer, "Stranger Places, Greater Things," shows a realization that we are part of something bigger in life, and not alone in struggles, while "Costa Rica" is a pretty serious, upbeat love song, and for good measure, there's even a piano ballad, "Buried Alive." Overall, I can see Theatre Breaks Loose being a band to be listened to driving around with windows rolled down on a summer day, the perfect setting for some fun alternative rock, with a slight pop punk influence, which is exactly what the six song EP Stranger Places, Greater Things brings with it.
