Reviews

Quo Vadimus

Jena Berlin

Released: Aug 14, 2007
Label: Jump Start Records
Reviewed by: Christina Parrella
2 comments

I give Jena Berlin credit where credit should be given. The fact that this five piece post-hardcore group from Philadelphia care more about the independent music landscape than the over processed and commercial side of the scene gives this band some backbone in a world where punk sellouts are becoming more popular than teen actresses with drug addictions. I applaud the fact that Jena Berlin - named for two cities in Germany where socialist Karl Marx attended college - place more emphasis on music as an open market available to the masses than on selling more records than your rivals.

Quo Vadimus, Jena Berlin's second record sounds a lot like early 90s emotional hardcore reminiscent of Fugazi and Hot Water Music, only lead singer Jon Loudon's voice doesn't explode and pop the way it should.

The record starts off with "Chelsea," a very powerful song. In fact, it is probably the best track on Quo Vadimus; Loudon's vocals shine in the beginning, erupt towards the middle and harmonize towards the end. The beginning riff powerfully pulls the listener in and then slowly winds the song into a tumultuous end where Loudon's furious delivery surges with passion.

After that however, the vocals play a lackluster role to the guitar, bass and drum beats that feverishly rip into the songs like "Crossed Arms" and "Instruments," which are otherwise oral bores. The slightly troubling (but in a good way) lyrics shine on both tracks, which also showcase razor sharp guitars and melodies.

The second track, "Communique," will satisfy those looking for a mix between alternative and punk rock, but it's nothing dynamic. The beginning of "Island Living" is strong, with angular sounding riffs that hint at the frantic twists and turns to come, but while the sound gets more captivating, Loudon's vocals are dry and seem forced.

The intricate songwriting and obvious heart are what make Jena Berlin a band that has one up on its competition. Oh, and the fact that they still believe in socialism is kinda cool.