Review Summary: Breakout Album For A Dynamic Band That Deserves More Acclaim.
In the midst of the hipster computer looping revolution, a lot of bands are flying under the radar in 2013. The Epilogues are one you need to listen to.
The Epilogues cite M83, Smashing Pumpkins, the Killers and the Cure as their major musical influences. Certainly, it is easy to taste the blend of these bands in the Cinematics' melodies, dream pop segways and distortionist guitar riffs And, to add to the comparisons, the lead singers delivery is very Placebo and Silversun Pickups.
Yet, what makes this band special is its intense, emotional song writing and its ability to put together a comprehensive EP of songs that are not only catchy but full of substance, complexity, and angst. The first track of the album, the "Shadow King" is the ideal set up. Lead Singer, Chris Heckman, wails "A chill in a lie, I can only feel alone." Cinematics is Heckman's visceral gut check that routinely draws the listener in.
The album picks up with the melodic "Call me a mistake" and "My misinformed John Hughes Teenage Youth," which would have been radio staples in the early 90s. On these tracks you can hear the bands distortion mixed perfectly with sharp, strong melodies.
The diversity in musical styles really sets The Epilogues apart. Oh "Hunting Season" the Coldplay sweeping arena guitars are there as Heckman dives into conflicted personal ambition and his relationships. "Foxholes" masterly sets up Cinematics main event, "Paradigm Shift" which is a dreamy journey with slick guitars that echo Heckman's voice.
The later stand out track, the "The Keene Act" really showcases the bands dynamic style. Layerd synth envelopes into swooping distortionist guitars that provide the perfect melodic for Heckman's falsetto whine "Oh is it wrong to feel so numb?"
Despite the obvious emotional themes, this isn't a depressing album. Its an uplifting journey into what music was and should be.
