Saturday, July 12, 2014

Avalanche - Brave City

Brave City, the alternative-rock outfit from the San Francisco Bay Area, is gearing up to release their second album Intentions on July 26th. To build momentum, they've released the gritty and explosive single "Avalanche". Recorded and mixed by some of the band members themselves, the song radiates a DIY attitude and passion that can be lost in the glossy radio hits. With a back and forth nature in the vocals, the listener (or at least me) is definitely reminded of a "Deja Entendu" Brand New era-sound. It's got that raw energy that makes you tap your foot along and grin because it just feels good. The contrast between the verses and the chorus is stellar, with the switches being sudden but not choppy. While most of the instrumentation leans towards the guitar/drum side, the inclusion of a synth at certain points like the bridge adds an extra level of depth and richness to the song that you might not expect. Overall, it is definitely a solid intro to what could be a great album from a local band.

Rating: 8/10
Sounds Like: Brand New, Manchester Orchestra, Modest Mouse

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