Spring Break
REVIEW: Silversun Pickups keep alt rock alive
3 and a half out of 5 stars
Alyssa Carroll
Issue date: 4/16/09 Section: Focus
A throwback to an almost passé genre, Silversun Pickups' new album, "Swoon," proves that 90s alternative rock isn't dead.
Following its 2006 album release, "Carnavas," "Swoon" features a consistently droning, electric rock sound distinctively contrasted by the grave, yet feminine vocals of lead singer Brian Aubert.
Progressing away from the more indie, angst-ridden sounds of "Carnavas," Silversun exhibits a more ethereal rock theme on "Swoon," a disappointment to fans who enjoyed the catchiness of the former album.
The appropriately chosen single, "Panic Switch," is easily one of the best tracks on the album. Opening with a crisp simple drum beat and ripping electric guitar, the track builds into a captivating chorus of Aubert's haunting grunge sound, making the track easy to listen to repeatedly.
Though other notable tracks, such as "Getting Old is Getting Ol," and "The Royal We" stand out on the album, there is an overall similarity of sounds between the tracks.
Also, detracting from the potential of the album is Aubert's occasional tendency to cusp on an almost emo sound, a negative side effect of his higher pitched voice.
Silversun Pickups fans will not be disappointed with this release, as the band has retained its caliber of musicianship and distinct sound. However, while this is a solid album, this CD does seem to lack the diversity of sound that "Carnavas" had.
Following its 2006 album release, "Carnavas," "Swoon" features a consistently droning, electric rock sound distinctively contrasted by the grave, yet feminine vocals of lead singer Brian Aubert.
Progressing away from the more indie, angst-ridden sounds of "Carnavas," Silversun exhibits a more ethereal rock theme on "Swoon," a disappointment to fans who enjoyed the catchiness of the former album.
The appropriately chosen single, "Panic Switch," is easily one of the best tracks on the album. Opening with a crisp simple drum beat and ripping electric guitar, the track builds into a captivating chorus of Aubert's haunting grunge sound, making the track easy to listen to repeatedly.
Though other notable tracks, such as "Getting Old is Getting Ol," and "The Royal We" stand out on the album, there is an overall similarity of sounds between the tracks.
Also, detracting from the potential of the album is Aubert's occasional tendency to cusp on an almost emo sound, a negative side effect of his higher pitched voice.
Silversun Pickups fans will not be disappointed with this release, as the band has retained its caliber of musicianship and distinct sound. However, while this is a solid album, this CD does seem to lack the diversity of sound that "Carnavas" had.
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