Although Toronto apparently isn't actually the centre of the universe
as many of its occupants believe, one thing can't be denied; the
music scene there is unbelievable. The alternative rock scene that
has emerged from there can boast bands such as Broken
Social Scene, Metric, and Stars. Who have come out of
Vancouver? Chad Kroeger keeps trying to pick up our
women, but I'm blaming Alberta for Nickelback. Anyway, The new
generation of internetting indie rockers needs some solid Canadian
representation and I have a nominee. I present to you Toronto's very
own Bravestation, a quartet of young and talented musicians with a
clear and confident vision.
Their
approach was a smart one; their 2010 EP was released for free
download to bring in new fans with no strings attached. I was one to
download said EP I instantly liked their sound. It was a very solid
collection of songs. But their new release is a full album and costs
a reasonable $8 to download. I see how it is; first taste is for
free. At least there are no negative side effects, though I haven't
felt what the withdrawal is like yet.
Thick
with reverb and calming riffs, Giants &
Dreamers is Bravestation's debut album
that offers a blissful escape from your worries and allows you to
indulge in nine new wave inspired tunes that are slickly produced and
well written. I really like Bravestation's sound. They've really
figured out the right balance of airy vocals and smooth guitars and
synthesizers. It all seems so effortless, though I can't imagine the
process being easy. I have to admit that for a band that is still
starting off, it's impressive that they were able to achieve such a
polished sound. What's even more impressive is that it seems that
their music is recorded at a home studio, but I can't find too much
information on the recording process.
If there was
a criticism that is legitimate for this album, it would be that
people might see it as a bit redundant. There isn't a lot of
variation in style or mood. I would argue though, that this isn't a
huge deficiency. The consistent tone I feel works to strengthen the
album and the songwriting is varied enough that at no point feel like
they're just dishing out the same song in a different package. They
have enough of their own identity and occasionally will take some
very interesting turns. But the atmosphere that the songs bring is a
really pleasant one so even if they are a little too similar
sounding, it isn't frustratingly so. The more you listen to them the
more of a unique identity they gain.
What
is interesting about the songs on Giants &
Dreamers is that they works in a lot of
contexts. Some albums seem to appeal to a certain mood or even time
of year. I imagine this being a great soundtrack to a sunny day on
the beach as well as a walk through the snow. I imagine this being
comforting during a break up or also great for celebrating a new
love. It's got a strange universal appeal that can bring in any sort
of audience. I find it hard to imagine anyone hating their music
outright.
The
album has a very positive energy about it. There is a restrained
passion to their sound that I think sums up what works so well about
Bravestation. They use a lot of restraint, allowing the songs to flow
out naturally and casually. No one sound is there to dominate
another; there are no crunching guitar solos to be had and there
doesn't need to be. They know the strength is in the whole product
and that is something worth admiring. And that lets the listener
enjoy the subtle details as they revisit the tunes. And I am certain
that they will visit again soon.
4.5
Stars
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