OK, I’m back with the album review. This has been another one of those that VB and I end up streaming for a while. With their 3rd effort, we get a good mix of classic Fray songs
and a couple of twists. Without a doubt, the most commercially successful song should be “Heartbeat,” as it has a certain forward momentum and catchy groove to it. I can sing the right notes from the chorus vocals at any moment. That’s how memorable it is.
The rest of the CD has some strong efforts from Issac, both lyrically and musically. There’s no doubting who wrote these songs. His voice is what it is. If you can’t stand it by now, then you aren’t a fan of this band. Personally, I like “The Wind” and “Rainy Zurich”, a song by Joe King. Both Eric and myself agree that Joe should have more songs! “48 To Go” is another interesting track that sounds more like Counting Crows (one of The Fray’s influences). The band members talked about letting loose and finding their roots for this album. I think they do a better job of this with the new record, though old fans won’t be mad with the sound. I feel like the instrumentals are stronger on this record. Overall, I’m pleased with the effort from the band, and I hope they continue to grow with these songs.
Pat