Mae - (m)orning (2009)

Artist: Mae
Album: (m)orning EP
Date Released: April 19, 2009
Genre: Indie, Alternative Rock

Album Review:

The Tune is a blog that I hold in high respect, and the author writes: "Mae....keeps their morning mood perfectly". Indeed, the feel of this concept EP is very much down tempo, rebirthed, and filled with a new creative energy not seen in Singularity. As Mae is supposed to stand for (M)usic, (A)rt, and (E)ducation, this and the 2 following EP's are to stand for (M)orning, (A)fternoon, and (E)vening. So far, with (M)orning I am very impressed. What's more impressive, is that the proceeds for this album's sales are going to charities of the band's choosing. SAWESOME!!!

The 37-minute EP is filled with creativity and new life. Extended, mind-blowing instrumentals are accompanied by traditional Mae-like ballads like Boomerang. With catchy lines that one might end up singing without knowing, the songs in turn take the listener to unexpected, pleasant places. Having grown up with this band's music, it is easy for me to see (and safe for me to say on their behalf) that this album contains promise for the band. I definitely look forward to listening to, and reviewing (A)fternoon and (E)vening!

Rating: 8.5 out of 10

Song-by-song:

Good (M)Orning: Bleeps and drum taps fall behind dissonant chords to start the album. I wasn't much for this intro track, as it didn't fit the springy, bright morning feel like the other songs do.

The Fisherman Song (We All Need Love): at 8:39, this long song grows in feel and style, from an acoustic opening to an explosive rocking beat. Definitely a great song from start to finish, though start to finish will take a while...

The House That Fire Built: Another long song follows the Fisherman. I don't like this one as much, as it tends to drag, but it maintains the upbeat tempo.

Boomerang: A beautiful love song, and a unique one at that. Dave Elkins hits the falsetto notes perfectly.

Two Birds: One of the best instrumentals I have ever listened to. And I mean that with all seriousness. So much creativity and harmony, and unmatched tone that makes this song really sound like two hundred birds singing together blissfully.

A Melody, the Memory: "When you sing do you slip away? Back to that place in your mind? Let our love be the one thing you wont leave behind" Beautiful lyrics, and another song that feels very uprising and inspiring.

Night/Day: Another great song, perhaps the one with the "fattest" sound (distorted guitar, cracking riffs, nice drum beat). The lyrics are also very strong. I enjoyed this one a lot.

(M)Orning: A closing instrumental, with the same dissonant tones as the intro track. That makes sense, but again, I cringe at the chords and the quirky overall sound of the song. Ah well. Well done Mae!