New release all about memories

White Lighter
TYPHOON
9-out-of-10

With the advent of digital media, and hosts like bandcamp.com, it's becoming increasingly easy for bands to display their talent in short, easier to afford EP's. Although frustrating for a reviewer, the music held on these two, three, or 4 track albums are usually the best to be offered. Oregon band TYPHOON's new record, White Lighter, is a two-track masterpiece that I needed to share.

With only two songs, White Lighter does not lack content. The symphonic arrangements and wild-eyed energy are enough to induce multiple listens, discovering a new melody, line, or lyric each time. The band of eleven creates massive percussive sections, intertwining melody and a clear sound full of substance.

Track one, "Young Fathers", explores coming to terms with family history, responsibility, and new experience. Musically, it soars from low to high traversing every point in between. An abundance of instruments forms a post-rock symphony, playing off of each other in a very headstrong manner.

"Dreams of Cannibalism" focuses more on horns, and a broader spectrum of sounds with busy percussion. Every hook in this song is delicious and memorable and played with unforgiving energy.

I found it quite astounding that armed with only two songs, TYPHOON caught my attention so completely. Everything about these two tracks leans on perfection, surpassing what I thought a band could do when only given eight minutes to showcase and connect with a listener.

-SEAN CRAIB-PETKAU

Set Fire
The Box Tiger
7-out-of-10

Toronto indie outfit The Box Tiger appeal to fans of hard hitting, driven, melodic rock with their latest release Set Fire. This nighttime art rock album draws to mind cramped clubs, spilt beer, and earned sweat.

The energy exuded by lead singer Sonia Sturino is thrilling, matched by the band ounce for ounce. Gritty and unforgiving, the songs are driven by the heavy rock drums while the guitars chime slick hooks and thick chords. The record combines just the right amount of pop, post, and indie rock elements to keep it familiar yet interesting. One of its greatest assets is the song writing. A mixture of thought provoking lines, vivid images, and crowd chants make for a stimulating listen. I also find that bands with a female lead lend themselves to have more interesting vocal melodies.

Set Fire, although not ground breaking, is a great indie rock record with some great rhythms and fuming energy.

-SEAN CRAIB-PETKAU