5 of 5 thought this review was well writtenIf I didn’t know any better, I would think that Claudio Sanchez had a side project that no one really knows about. At the very least, Anthony Green was doing a lot of guest vocal work for bands with better songs.
The comparisons have been towards The Rise of Science, a band whose name isn’t very relevant, it seems. The potential for TROS is easily audible, with their elegant guitars layered over post hardcore drumming. Everything sounds like it’s in place, but as was hinted at previously, there is just one glaring drawback. The vocal work isn’t particularly pleasant, subjectively of course.
This isn’t to say Catlin Boswell’s voice isn’t inviting, or all that much inaccessible. His key work is certainly pleasant, but unless a listener is keen on higher, seemingly monotone anti-crooning akin to Adam Fisher, the voice becomes either an acquired taste or a necessary evil. I hope this isn’t coming off a bit harsh for those that will enjoy him. It’s obviously just not my favorite style. Technically, he is not just competent, but good. It’s the tone that will cause polarity.
Personal reservations aside, Casey is an enjoyable venture in to a bit more sophisticated rock music. The “post” elements coupled with a brand of music that falls short of progressive make an interesting argument for how well put together the album is. Structurally, TROS takes a few different directions, taking care to include a ballad of sorts that showcases Boswell’s voice in a more positive light, once again, subjectively of course.
The band’s wide range of influences is pretty forward itself. TROS has recorded covers of Prince and The Verve Pipe. If it you aren’t at least curious about a band’s original material based on something like that, it makes one wonder why. The dual guitars interspersing clean tones in a well produced package draw off of the sound of the album that is backed by keyboards and even non-guitar stringed instruments. Even through the heavier parts, the band continues to make beautiful sections.
The Rise of Science have made a worthy addition to the realm of post hardcore styled rock music. Overall, Casey is a pleasurable experience for anyone looking for Circa Survive’s nearest competition.
