Having been a fan of Film School's live show for years I've anticipated this release hoping for an atmospheric guitar album that showcases their playful bass player, who by the way has more live energy than most bands you'll ever see. And that's pretty much what happens here. Film School's rhythm section also provides a nice backdrop anchoring all the dreamy elements and sparkles from going overboard. But most of all it's Krayg Burton's unique and emotional voice that keeps this album balanced between the dreamy moods and intense rock.
I love the straight-ahead guitar approach to "On & On", the rocket-fueled rockers "Harmed" and "He's a Deep Deep Lake" are equally crushing and soaring, "11:11" nods a bit to The Cure, and the beautifully written knockout "Like You Know" could be one of the best written songs all year. Vocally I wish Burton stood out more and love that his voice stays clean and more direct, and it ultimately keeps Film School separated from any lazy shoegaze comparisons. Their songs pulsate with more emotion and intensity than almost all of the bands from that genre anyway. Recommended.
Film School play next Wednesday at The Troubadour, 1/25 with Austin's Sound Team and our very own Colored Shadows.
