These Animals
Pages
Self-Released
Street: 07.30
These Animals = Death Cab for Cutie + Allred
These “pages” nod back to late ‘90s alternative indie/emo. The problem is: That’s a place I don’t prefer to go. I love The Postal Service, but this band’s vocals channel Ben Gibbard’s era just a little too much. I almost cringe every time I hear the soft angst in the vocals among some surprisingly praiseworthy production. Layers of guitar fuzz and feedback grab my attention on many of their songs, but the vocals kill the songs’ energy. While the instrumentals evoke a feeling that is cool and powerful, the vocals say, “I’m soft and emotional.” It’s a clash that’s makes me uneasy. Nevertheless, I’m sure their “rough while pretty” sounds will warm the hearts of some. –Justin Gallegos