Okay, this is my first review, so it's probably not going to be that great. Just figured I'd warn you all.
Lately Straylight Run has been getting an excessive workout in my cd player. Ranging from their demo, their debut, and now this EP. I would have to agree with the two other people who have reviewed this EP (Both of which I've read.), it isn't the greatest thing I've ever listened to. Yet this is where my opinion differs. No matter how many bad reviews I read about this, I seem to love it. The opening track "I Don't Want This Anymore" starts off with another infamous Michelle song. Most whom I've talked to seem to hate, or at least strongly dislike her songs. I must say I love them. The song is mostly electronic, as Straylight went for a more electronic/synthesiser touch for this album. I must say however, I did not like the song when I first heard it, however it does grow on you, if you give it a chance.
The second song is "It Never Gets Easier". A rehashed version of Straylight Run's "Costello". I've listened to both versions, and can't say I like one over the other. While some people say they took all the emotion out of it when they put it on this album, I would have to say they encapsulated it. The only problem I can really say about the song is that the first two times the chorus is sung, it sounds too much like the verse in that it stays somewhat quiet.
"Later That Year" is the first of three /protest/ songs on this album. And truthfully I would have to say it is the worst of the three. It's not to say it's not a good song, but this is usually just a 'skip' track for me.
Next we have "Slow Descent". Another re-done version. This song was originally off their demo. I would have to say that this is my favourite song off the album. Much better than the demo. It begins quietly, and as it goes along, you can just hear the anger and sorrow in John's voice. The only downfall I can put out is that the song is basically one long verse. But it reminds me almost of a poem, which is probably why I like it.
"Hands in the Sky (Big Shot)" is the fifth and last Straylight Run song on the EP. Once again it starts off slow and soft. Lyrically this is probably the best song on the album (Not including their cover.) The electronics in the song finally come into their best moments. This is also the one of the last two protest songs on the album. As of right now, this is the only single the band has released from this cd, and probably will be the only one. The video accompanying this song is phenomenal, and really ties together the entire meaning of the song.
Finally we have the cover of Bob Dylan's "With God on Our Side". What can be said about this, that hasn't already been said? It's simply breathtaking. With each verse, in comes another instrument, starting with John and a piano, and then Michelle. Followed by each instrument. As it all ties together in the end, the last verse dwindles with just John again. I've seen bands cover Dylan before, and honestly, I think this one was the best.
So there you have it, a complete, though rather longish, and somewhat biased review of Straylight Run's EP.
Pros
The band is taking a more political turn.
Electronic sounds add a certain darker qulaity to the music.
Cons
Somewhat repetitious.
