Artist: Reign of Kindo
Album: This Is What Happens
Date Released: August 3, 2010
Genre: Jazz/Alternative Rock
Album Review:
To pin this band under a genre would do them a disservice, for their style is definitely unique, combining avant-garde jazz elements into alternative rock to present some refreshing sounds that one doesn't often come by in the music world.
Their second full length, This Is What Happens, opens with an explosive introduction and a song rich with emotion. The songs have very soothing harmonies to them, and yet cry out distinct messages. Songs like "Symptoms of a Stumbling" are more downtempo and are reminiscent of older and quant piano-driven ballads, while songs like the opening "Thrill of the Fall" are more chaotic and upbeat. "Now We Make Our Ascent" is the obvious part two to the previous "Til We Make Our Ascent", and mirrors it with the vocal melodies.
It is uncanny how the music can make the most down-to-earth topics seem bizarre and surreal, giving them a mysterious element and added depth. The acoustic "Soon it Shall Be" is a simple flamenco-laiden romantic: "So I wrote you this song, though in vain dear, for no lyric or rhyme could contain all the gladness you bring to the saddest of days, oh my love, how I yearn for you now..." Lastly, the outro song "Psalm" is a great song that encapsulates the album, finishing the almost hour-long love song.
One complaint, if any are to be made, is the album lacking the same lead guitar as before (songs like Needle & Thread were made alive by the jazzy guitar licks). It is hardly noticed here and there (Out of Sight, Out of Mind for example) but otherwise absent. I feel that this makes the album empty in comparison to previous efforts. To make up for it, Reign of Kindo incorporated some Latin influences, which have definitely matured the band's sound.
Overall, the album has its dragging points, but it is a great follow up to Rhythm Chord & Melody. Very easy on the ears, and not too heavy on the heart!
Rating: 7.5 out of 10
Their second full length, This Is What Happens, opens with an explosive introduction and a song rich with emotion. The songs have very soothing harmonies to them, and yet cry out distinct messages. Songs like "Symptoms of a Stumbling" are more downtempo and are reminiscent of older and quant piano-driven ballads, while songs like the opening "Thrill of the Fall" are more chaotic and upbeat. "Now We Make Our Ascent" is the obvious part two to the previous "Til We Make Our Ascent", and mirrors it with the vocal melodies.
It is uncanny how the music can make the most down-to-earth topics seem bizarre and surreal, giving them a mysterious element and added depth. The acoustic "Soon it Shall Be" is a simple flamenco-laiden romantic: "So I wrote you this song, though in vain dear, for no lyric or rhyme could contain all the gladness you bring to the saddest of days, oh my love, how I yearn for you now..." Lastly, the outro song "Psalm" is a great song that encapsulates the album, finishing the almost hour-long love song.
One complaint, if any are to be made, is the album lacking the same lead guitar as before (songs like Needle & Thread were made alive by the jazzy guitar licks). It is hardly noticed here and there (Out of Sight, Out of Mind for example) but otherwise absent. I feel that this makes the album empty in comparison to previous efforts. To make up for it, Reign of Kindo incorporated some Latin influences, which have definitely matured the band's sound.
Overall, the album has its dragging points, but it is a great follow up to Rhythm Chord & Melody. Very easy on the ears, and not too heavy on the heart!
Rating: 7.5 out of 10
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