CD REVIEW: the Bandages - the Bandages
By Steve Allat - 02/24/2005 - 04:38 PM EST
Artist: the Bandages
Album: the Bandages
CD Review: Label: Independent
For Fans Of: The Smiths, R.E.M., Coldplay
Fav Tracks: Joy In The Dark, Lush, Scariest Movie Ever
Short, sweet and to the point - the Bandages waste no time and don't try to burden us with their music. Eight tunes clocking in at just under 26 minutes gives us a very good idea of what this quartet is all about. Short tunes, reminiscent of the 60's, encompassing brit-pop, the light punk of the early 80's and the now familiar indie-rock scene (think college radio) sound.
My only real gripe throughout is that the vocals sound a little flat, especially considering the lyrics, which deal with pain & suffering. That could be the nature of the band's sound, and it still works, but my special request is for a little more angst, please. Or at least some more dynamic, if not in the lead, then in the harmony. It's a little too pleasant sounding. A more full sound would open things up and take off the slight dour edge. The backing vocals are a little weak, too. Slight improvement in both areas with the ability to bring the backing vocals forward would help the sound more than anything. I think they already know this themselves, they just need to achieve it now.
The band plays using the basics: vocals, piano, guitar, bass & drums. Guitar drives the songs along for the most part, with piano adding the occasional decoration. I like the simplicity of the overall sound & song structure. The starts & stops are great and make the songs catchy and easy to get into. That's their forte, for sure.
All eight songs are memorable and have their identity while maintaining an overall distinction as a whole as well. It was enjoyable to listen to all the way through.
The production is fairly well done, but is a bit 'dry' sounding, something that also dampens the spirit of the songs. I don't quite think they've captured the energy or dynamics that the songs truly encompass.
So, just a couple slight adjustments, and these guys have not only some excellent songs, but also the sound that will distinguish themselves out there.
Contact: The Band
Website: The Bandages