Review Summary: "It's not the same without you.."
Hidden in the impressive roster of Topshelf Records (consisting of Defeater, Pianos Become the Teeth, Native, and Into It. Over It.), My Heart To Joy have created their own comfortable niche mixing post-hardcore, midwestern emo, and even pop punk inspired guitar riffs and vocal melodies. Releasing this short but oh so enjoyable EP just before their disbandment, My Heart To Joy have definitely gone out with a bang.
"Farewell To A Raincloud" is a perfect opener for this EP and even works as a great introduction to My Heart To Joy. Working on a groove that is as infectious as it is representative of what is known as emotive post-hardcore, MHTJ utilize their knack for catchy guitar riffs and vocal melodies that are sure to induce sing-alongs at your local venues. The greatest thing about this release is that My Heart To Joy never have a moment of awkwardness. It makes itself comfortable with the listener and creates a warm feeling of bliss through the excellent musicianship and somewhat cliche (but in a good way) lyrics.
No album is without its flaws, though. The one flaw that may lower a listener's opinion on Reason To Be is how incredibly short it is. Clocking in at only eleven minutes, it will leave you wanting more (which will sadly never happen). It is nearly impossible to overlook this problem, but it in no way lessens the enjoyment of the music that does exist here.
Reason To Be is a release that any fan of "the wave" and all related styles of music should give a chance to. The EP is warm, inviting, and catchy as hell while only being marred by its short duration.
