Review Summary: a fairly average band with an amazing vocalist - the words "heavenly" and "gloriousness" come to mind.
Although I’ve digested a fair share of female-fronted alternative rock bands, The Material have a certain something that keeps me coming back for more. On paper it seems that this band brings nothing new to the table (which is true), but they also bring something else – passion. When the band plays live, you can tell that they are not simply going through the motions; they are putting their hearts into it and channeling their energy from within. “Oh whoopdido”, says the critic, “So the band enjoys playing their music, who doesn’t?” While this is certainly a true statement, it is also true that no matter how passionate certain bands are, some bands connect with their audiences, and some do not. The Material does, that is for sure.
My first brush with The Material was when I accidentally stumbled upon their song, ‘Before This Ship Goes Down’ – I could not have asked for a better introduction. Easily their most emotionally impacting song, it tells the story of a girl and her boyfriend with jobs that eat away at their relationship. Stuck in a vicious cycle, they finally decide to leave their house, the girl packs her suitcase, the guy packs his guitar, and they leave hand in hand into the expansive white. I can’t remember the last time I found lyrics with believable drama. Including relatable lyrics makes the album notably engaging since every song tells a story.
An alternative rock band with pop punk leanings, the only real defining aspect of the band is the lead singer. They are in the boat with similar bands that have powerful female vocalists: VersaEmerge, Paramore, Fireflight, etc. However, while the singers of said bands prefer clamorous, aggressive vocals, Colleen claims smooth, soaring, dulcet tones. Extremely easy on the ears, even when she belts out impressively high notes during choruses, her voice is as sweet as ever. She can also sing quickly, when required, and contributes to the catchiness of the already pleasantly catchy choruses. In short, everything hinges on Colleen’s vocal prowess and charisma, and when in short supply, the band suddenly seems less interesting (which does not occur). The Material give us punchy, yet easily marketable, melodious tunes with alluring female vocals. One great singer is certainly enough to make
To Weather The Storm worth your time.
