Review Summary: Illinois veterans do what they do best: make decent music.
The Forecast has always been an interesting band. They have yet to release an album that is 'bad' but have yet to release anything phenomenal either. Their new self-titled album is no exception. Again we find southern-indie rockers doing what they do best, making decent music. If you're the type of person who appreciates well constructed, well written, and thoroughly enjoyable songs, then this album is for you. Just don't expect them to change your life either.
The Forecast appeals to several different 'styles' of music to create their own interesting, if mildly unoriginal, sound. A mixture of indie, southern rock, pop-punk, The Forecast might not be anything you haven't heard before, but that doesn't make them any less enjoyable. Nothing here to surprise the listener, The Forecast know what they like, and they play it well. The guitars are tight, the drums upbeat and bouncing, and the vocal hooks are effective and plentiful.
Speaking of vocals, The Forecast make good use of the dual vocals of Dustin Addis and the fantastic Shannon Burns. Interweaving male and female vocals? Check plus. One complaint long-time fans might have is the relative absence of Shannon's vocals compared to earlier albums where she frequently provided the songs high points. While Shannon is featured less prominently than previous albums she continues to impress as always, especially on the excellent "If I'm Not Mistaken". Lyrically the band is just as impressive as ever. While the lyrics are hardly grand poetry, they have a certain aspect that many bands lack: honesty. When they sing you believe every word of it. This is perhaps The Forecast's most endearing quality, the ability to relate to fans on an emotional level through their lyrics, no simple task to be sure.
Never a band to disappoint, The Forecast provides listeners with another above-par record. Don't go into the album expecting groundbreaking soundscapes or timeless classics and you will be pleasantly surprised. This is a record to be enjoyed while driving down the interstate on a bright summer day with speakers blaring. The Forecast are fun, that's what they do best. Occasionally letting go of musical snobbery in favor of a fun listen or two can be very rewarding, and The Forecast are just the band for the job.
Recommended Tracks
Losers
If I'm Not Mistaken
Double On The Rocks
