Anberlin

Artist: Anberlin
Album: Cities (2007)
Label: Tooth And Nail

In 2005, Anberlin made a massive leap into the pop punk scene with 'Never Take A Friendship Personal'. With their 2007 release we see Anberlin evolve without losing their credibility or core sound in 'Cities'.

Readily introduced with ‘Godspeed’, a track so full of energy you will want to break out in your best dance move builds up anticipation for what is to come. And in a single spilt-second, singer/songwriter Stephen Christian can break your groove to an emotional standstill with acoustically driven ‘The Unwinding Cable Car’ and ‘Alexithymia’. Stephen’s natural ability to transform real-life situations into phenomenal rock songs is seen in ‘Dismantle Repair’ and ‘Hello Alone’. Still keeping the listener drawn into their reality, Stephen’s distinctively smooth vocals will leave you forever wondering and wanting with closing track ‘Fin’.

In perfecting their trademark sound Anberlin are living proof that breaking away from their well-known sound can be for the best.

Tegan And Sara

Artist: Tegan And Sara

Album: The Con (2007)
Label: Sire

For the devoted, Tegan and Sara need no selling-point introduction as their music sell and speak soundly for themselves. Having been making music since the age of fifteen, the Canadian twin duo, now at twenty-six have released their long-awaited album, aptly titled The Con.

With no expectations set in mind, then to hear the maturity and quality in their song-writing ability, it was clear that this record was nothing short of melancholic perfection. With lyrics honest and simple, vocals raw and emotional (‘Dark Come Soon’), the signature combination creates an unforgettable listening experience.

Opening with a controversial and affirming protestation in ‘I Was Married’ the girls speaks out to the L-word haters with simplicity and class, whilst the title inspiring synth-driven track ‘The Con’ hooks you in to a sing-a-long. And just when you think this record rings happy tales (‘Burn Your Life Down’), it’ll unexpectedly sink you into darker themes (‘Knife Going In’). Almost like a string of poetic vignettes, each song tells a short and sweet story, with a touch of sadness (‘Soil, Soil’) to the surrounding themes of life, love and loss.

Finding a song to simply dislike on this release is rather impossible.

Artist: Tegan and Sara
Album: So Jealous (2004)
Label: Sanctuary

So Jealous, shaped up to be the soundtrack of my summer...and still is :-)