The Deal: Formed in July 2010, the Rock Hill, S.C., quartet Fusebox Poet releases its 11-song debut album.
THE GOOD: The band hit the studio with the intention of recording an EP, but had enough material to release a full-length debut. Using energetic riffs to draw a listener in, the songwriting is a step above what I expected. While the Poets kick the album off with the melody-focused “Ashes & Apologies,” the group quickly establishes an edge on the next track. Singer/pianist Drew Cyphers shows his vocal range on “Skylines & Fine Lines,” while the band also offers a few harmonies. “Wasted Goodbyes” shows the band’s ability in musical songwriting and more lyrical depth — using the piano for highlights during the verses which build to a strong rock chorus. The band’s music comes across as familiar with plenty of potential to establish something of their own.
THE BAD: I really hope that wasn’t Autotune I heard on “Cynic.” Possibly too radio-friendly, which some will see as a bad thing. I wonder if a little more piano work would help to define their sound instead of being used for accents here and there.
THE VERDICT: A pleasant surprise and a band worth keeping an eye on. For only a few months together, the band sounds incredibly polished.
This article appears in Dec 14-20, 2010.
http://www.fuseboxpoet.com – check out some tunes if you like the review!
I bought the album and it is lightyears above the usual indie LP. This is complex music. Just when you’ve pegged it as contemporary alternative, you get some great Hammond B3 riff or Wurlitzer electric piano lick that conjurs up a classic rock retro sound. I found myself playing it over and over and now I’m hooked. These are guy are going places. I’ve heard them live and you don’t have to worry about autotune – they are for real.
Ron in SC