Post by jptheprofessor on Oct 7, 2007 22:14:56 GMT -5
ACALASIA – WHAT MAKES YOU A MANIAC? (no label) Calling both Altoona and State College home, newcomer force Acalasia introduces listeners to their brand of hard-hitting melodic modern rock on their 6-song debut CD, What Makes You a Maniac? Drummer Cory Aboud, bassist Stephen Wells, and guitarists Ryan Sheehan and Neil Deyarmin generate busy, boisterous, sharp-edged backdrops, serving as the launching pad for singer Krystal Shore's clear, siren-like voice. Acalasia weaves an interesting mix, with the group’s often agitated and swarming metallic arrangements balanced and tempered with Krystal’s smooth and melodic voice, singing lyrics that ponder conflicting emotions, complex personalities, relationship dynamics and more. Five of the songs display this unique counterpoint; including the alluring leadoff track “So Much for the Railcar,” the driving and catchy radio single “Contradictory” and the climactic closer “Based on True Stories.” “There’s No Place Like Home” and “Maniac Parade” exhibit more extreme Jeckyl-and-Hyde dynamics to emphasize their stormier lyrical themes. Acalasia shows a different side of their personality on “Unused,” a well-crafted, acoustic-geared power ballad that is fleshed out with a keyboard presence. Recorded and mixed by Dave Villani at Altoona’s Data Music Services, the overall production effectively displays Acalasia’s teeth and jagged edge, while also supporting the group’s melodic side with vocal harmonies and layering. Krystal’s voice could be a little stronger in the mix, and her voice is occasionally overwhelmed by the instrumentation. But overall, What Makes You a Maniac offers a strong introduction to Acalasia’s blend of agitation and melody; and sets a sturdy foundation for this young band to build and expand upon. (The CD can be obtained at shows and through Acalasia’s Myspace website, www.myspace.com/acalasia.