Post by jptheprofessor on Jul 9, 2007 15:36:53 GMT -5
THE APRIL SKIES – HOW IT ALL PLAYED OUT (WiAB Records) On their new album, How It All Played Out, Hershey’s The April Skies pick up where they left off on their last CD, Flood, further exploring and expanding upon their 80’s-rooted sound. Again, The April Skies tap into the 80’s alternative/pop traditions of R.E.M., The Replacements, Elvis Costello and U2; and use that foundation as a launching pad to craft their own brand of 80’s-informed modern rock and pop. The group’s sound is again often defined by a wall of swarming guitars from frontman Jake Crawford and Andy Book, sewn and stitched together by Mark Higgins’ atmospheric keyboard tones. These components are the prominent driving forces of edgy rockers such as the album opener “X,” “Shots,” “My Love Is In This House” and “The Weight.” The group also layers electric, acoustic guitars and keys to incorporate texture and mood into numbers such as the uplifting “Grace,” the escalating 8-minute “Always Never Finished,” and the ethereal closing number “Unstoppable.” The April Skies indulge a jazzier, acoustic-based flavor on “Amnesia,” and an ambient keyboard instrumental in “Pure.” Once again, The April Skies craft alluring, detailed melodies that build and fully sink in with repeated listens. The instrumental details and variation, layering and clever production edges by the band, Jeff Mowery and Matt Beck provide various nuances that keep this album captivating and interesting throughout. The April Skies again show their knack for intelligent songcraft on How It All Played Out, a focused set that further defines this group’s musical world and the steady evolution of their unique style and sound. (The disc can be obtained through the group’s website, www.theaprilskies.com).