Reviews

The quasi-progressive, moody, atmospheric tendencies of this Philadelphia band are on full display right off the bat on their new EP. On "Proletariat," the band manages to throw everything they have going for them in a blender and come out with an amazing opening track. The melodic aura of vocalist Rob helps carry the song to its full power and leads itself nicely into the next track, "Death in a Silent Picture," where the guitars of Jay lead the band into a new and different direction, almost a combination of Incubus and the Mars Volta.

The band's atmospherics can tend to either turn someone into a fan or grow to alienate someone, particularly if their not a fan of Mars Volta or bands like that. The one song where this boils to the surface is "Get Real," which is also being marketed as the band's single with the video available on the CD. The song just comes across as trying too hard to sound like their idols and it just isn't any good. The only things that end up saving "Wallflower" are the backing vocals of bassist Jarrett. Otherwise, the song is merely a showcase for Rob's high-pitched vocals. The EP is a good introduction to the band and it shows what they're capable of. It will be interesting to see what they can accomplish on their full-lengthy.

Overall, this is a strong showing by a new band who make it no secret who their influences are. It isn't quite perfect but it's good for what it is and i am Alaska should be commended for their efforts while people wait to see what their record is actually going to sound like. Be on the look out for them...