Monday, March 7, 2011

90s' alternative with a twist

Hello Echo is the name of the band and Hello is the name of the album. This group is straight alternative - Third Eye Blind, Eagle Eye Cherry, Soundgarden, Eve 6, Semisonic... they will probably conjure up memories of middle school like woah. At the same time though, Hello Echo is not living in the past. They've subscribed to the same sound as Local Natives, adding the modern elements of more distortion and more experimentation to the once and still beloved 90s' classic alternative sound. As a result, these guys can sometimes push the limit between alternative and rock, occasionally but not constantly veering on the loud side. This is a wonderful album to play while poolside with a few cocktails, while relaxing at the beach, while playing volleyball, while grabbing a bite to eat, while in your car, while getting ready for the day... it's an all around solid listening-to record. Sean Aylward, the frontman and guitarist of this trio, shines on Hello. His work is a combination of lead and rhythm. The styles are not distinct but rather effectively intertwined (Aylward does some crazy work on Stone, one of the heavier tracks). It makes for some great chemistry between him and the bassist and drummer, whose lines are pretty simple in comparison but are still impressive in retrospect.

Verdict: 3.8/8. Favorite tracks: When Push Comes To Love, The Coming Days, Stefano, Disconnect Me, and I Came Back.

Also, if you haven't yet, you should check out my post on Bibio's Mind Bokeh. I think it's a wonderful album that should be given a listen.

Also x2, expect this week and weekend to be a little slow. I'm going to be a busy bee.

Best, Jonathan

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