My
Rival Sun
"Composition" CD
Self-released
Genres: alt rock, rock
Dec 13 - 19 2004 |
While its best aspect is its snazzy, conceptual cover art, My Rival
Sun's debut is still a remarkably solid rock album. The band
doesn't pull any surprises, never deviating from a set pattern, but
this just makes for a consistent release. Their sound is fairly
simple, falling under the melodic alternative rock banner, and nabbing
concepts from various nineties rock bands. Pearl Jam is
an obvious influence, though one can also hear glimpses of Eve 6
and Soundgarden in the mix. The music isn't as instantly catchy as
some of the genre's more successful singles, although tracks like
"Breakdown" and "Joker" have infectious choruses
and charging, riveting atmospheres. The album's best songs are
those that aren't afraid to go for the engaging pop hook or the guitar
solo climax - the less energetic, less melodic tracks end up dull and
flat. Fortunately, the majority of the disc falls under the
successful category. My Rival Sun has the chops - with a
bit more originality, they could become big players. For now,
this is a homogeneous but thoroughly entertaining rock record. 76%
Fun Fact: From the bio interview of Brian
Vaine, MRS' bassist:
"Tell us a secret: When I was
in 9th grade, I had a crush on my social studies teacher. She got
fired after she was reported to be having an affair with a female
student."
Matt Shimmer [Vitals:
12 tracks, distributed by the
band, released 2004] |