Review Summary: I just want to feel better.
With one EP under their belt, not many people were expecting a release like this from Hodera. A concentrated sound is found upon United By Birdcalls, with tracks ranging from lively anthemic rock songs to emotionally laced ballads. It's music like this that just seems to flow out of New Jersey effortlessly, establishing yet another band on the rise in the scene. Regardless, this is an album that people need to listen for themselves, picking and choosing their own songs to identify with, because there are plenty to choose from.
It all began with lead single 'Feel Better.' The track is identified by the pop undertone riding with the infectiously catchy vocal melodies. Matthew Smith's voice weaves in and out of guitar chords, finding a release in the chorus as he wants to find the cure to feeling better. Whether it is the sentimental notebook he is reading through or the phone calls to old friends, he finds relief in talking things out. That is what a majority of this LP is. 'The Outside' is a blanket that gets uncovered by a slow paced guitar, figuring out where the nightmares lie in life. Immediately after there is 'You'll Get Through This' which covers us back up in warmth and is an extension of Smith's want to find his solace.
The front half of the record is the more memorable side. 'Three Years' keeps this trend going by passionately waling through a emotional tune. After this there is a bit of melancholy tracks that we have heard similarities of before. Not to say they are not worthy of praise or might attract a dedicated listener, but they feel the same. 'Let It Out' stands alone in being upbeat and holding the passionate weight of the final five songs. 'I Remember Everything' is a good two part closer to help Smith find a bit of what he was hoping to discover in creating this LP.
While United By Birdcalls has great songs, it also has some that are well, there. Hodera no doubt released a solid debut, now the wait for what happens next is exciting.
