Review Summary: Wolf and Bear release a great debut LP which establishes them as one of the better bands currently signed to Blue Swan Records
Wolf and Bear have only recently emerged on the post-hardcore scene, but have already managed to acquire Dance Gavin Dance's bassist Tim Feerik and release a fantastic album blending a variety of familiar post-hardcore sounds whilst also successfully establishing their own. From Dance Gavin Dance to The Fall of Troy, Wolf and Bear proudly wears their influences on their sleeve, yet there is also something fresh and upbeat to be found within their specific blend of music. It is partially helped in delivery by the mathy guitars and the distinctly contrasting sounds of the cleans and screams, but it is only in the interplay of every member together of the six-piece band that the sound comes together. And that sound is pretty damn killer.
Throughout the course of Everything Is Going Grey, it can be noted that each track is distinct and well produced. From the rapid fire start of Twisted Tongues to Balcony's slower and heartfelt serenade, the album delivers a distinctive sound in each and every song. The production is certainly clean, but without going over the edge. Nothing sounds overproduced which allows the vocals to mix perfectly with the guitars. If there is anything to be said it's that the bass isn't very audible and the drums can often falter under the impressive guitar work with the exceptions of a few tracks such as War Paint and Armillaria Mellea. Another small gripe is that at times the influences can be a little too clear. The most obvious example of this are the screams. At times, it's clear that the screamer is trying his best to emulate Jon Mess instead of finding his own style which can detract from the otherwise distinct styles of the other members of the band. Highlight tracks on this album would absolutely be Twisting Tongues, Catch Release, Armillaria Mellea, and Balcony.
In conclusion, Every Is Going Grey is a great debut LP from Wolf and Bear. It is definitely better than most of what has been released by Blue Swan Records lately. The band has managed to blend a heavy dose of influences with their own personal style and it works very well most of the time. I can find little fault in this album other than a bit of an overreliance on DGD's influence, so make sure to check it out if you enjoy the bands on Blue Swan Records.
Edit: In hindsight, I still absolutely love this record, but I don't think it's creative or fresh enough to deserve the 4 that I originally gave it.
