Reviews

Attention's EP Stand Strong is kind of unique for a DIY record. Due to the veteran status of members (the non-Jonah Matranga members of Gratitude) and producers involved, Attention could not sound less DIY. In fact, I would go in the opposite direction and describe Attention as inoffensive radio rock, as in, if I heard them on the radio I would not change the station. In fact, the right temperature outside and the right amount of miles to drive, I might actually turn it up.

Attention would be at home among bands like Taking Back Sunday, Saves the Day and Something Corporate. Essentially, you've heard this sound before, and you've definitely heard these lyrics before, which focus completely on girls (a thrilling topic, no doubt). But at least Stand Strong sticks to its signature sound, which wavers between summery pop-punk and radio rock.

"Everytime I See You" is pure summer pop. It kicks off the release with Flaming Lips-style guitar, like in that "The W.A.N.D." song (it was in those Dell commercials). The breakdown section, which pans from left to right, is followed by background whoa-ohs, solidifying the direction of the EP.

"Almost" is pure radio music. Slow verse shifts to catchy chorus which cues bouncy riffs followed by head-banging breakdown and finish with endless chorus repeat. It's easy to remember a chorus like "Almost had a chance with you/We almost made it/Almost always do/I almost always get that close;" it's easy to hum along with the basic tune; it's easy to enjoy.

The rest of the EP follows that basic formula. Although their habit of borrowing little pieces from across the punk spectrum keeps things interesting, albeit a bit schizophrenic. "Never Tear Us Apart" has a strong Something Corporate-style, piano-driven, emo ballad feel to it. "Stand Strong" hits the pop-punk chords pretty well. Metallic guitar riffs open "Heartattack." The final track, "Raise Your Glass" is a pretty fitting acoustic bar ballad track until the orchestra arrives. The strings plus lyrics like "you wore a halo of sun" make this track a little corny.

Overall, Attention is enjoyable. While I'm not a huge fan of ‘powerpop,' these guys seem unpretentious and authentic. If you're going to do mainstream pop-punk, do it full-force. They don't come across as trying too hard to be bad ass punks or emotional poets or brow-furrowing math-musicians. For those who haven't shunned their radios for a more rigid, personalized album collection, Attention is a pretty good option.