Absentstar: Where We Begin Review

Oh Absentstar, you’ve done it again. You’ve created the finest form of pop/rock and ingrained the most superb melodies and hooks in my head. The only thing crazier than your ability for writing a catchy tune is the fact that you haven’t dominated top forty radio, but all in due time I suppose. Where We Begin is Absentstar’s sophomore album following their debut Sea Trials. Since that time the band has abandoned their label, and went out on their own, and like many bands who have done the same, the crew believes that it has been a rewarding experience, and according to the albums title, is a new beginning.

On their debut they compiled a healthy mix of rockers and ballads, and for their follow up they continus to follow the same formula. However, this time around it’s clear that the band is improving, and the improvement is completely audible in the music. The musicianship is tight, and all the pieces fit together to make a slew of strong tracks. They’re not venturing over any new ground, but they clearly have a strong knowledge of what makes pop/rock rewarding. Songs like “(Don’t You Think) We Owe it to Ourselves” and “Education” deliver big powerful choruses begging to be sung. Then there are the more subtle ballads which may not be as strong as the rockers, but still hold their own. As a whole, the songwriting is stellar.

Where We Begin sounds like a touch up of their debut Sea Trials. Musically it’s not all that different, but sometimes much of the art out there just needs a little touching up to display its vibrant colors, and Where We Begin is glowing. It catches your attention upon first listen, and doesn’t let go. Hell, I’m trying to review other albums and I’m still singing these songs in my head...

Grade: A-