April 2, 2010

The Morning Benders - Big Echo (2010)

Mark you calendars, Friday, May 21st at the Regency Ballroom The Morning Benders will be rolling into town to open for Broken Bells. I'm not sure which is more of a treat: Two stellar "groups" playing one show or The Morning Benders' new album Big Echo. The Berkeley to Brooklyn based band nails it on the head on this one. I was originally turned onto these guys because of their similarities to Ra Ra Riot, but I feel like they have taken great leaps forward with this release and established not just a sound, but a level of independence from defining comparisons. Although, there are some elements of Ra Ra Riot and Elvis Perkins mixed in with Beach Boy harmonies, I think it is fair to say that The Morning Benders have come to the party to stay by their own right. "Excuses" is the type of single that connects with you immediately and kicks off the album in a way that draws you in real close with its indie pop catchiness. Once "Excuses" sets the table for the rest of the album, you can enjoy the layered instrumentation and vocals that can be both relaxing and invigorating, depending on the mood - I could both fall asleep and prep for a night out to this album. This is a great album that I highly recommend. In addition to "Excuses," check out "Cold War" and "Hand Me Downs."

3 Comments:

awmercy said...

Love the video. I'll definitely have to check this out.

sandenuts said...

I agree video was cool. But the lead singer is funny looking, is he anemic or something?

Mona said...

It's great seeing another Asian singer out there that's not in Hoobastank :)

Oh, ever hear their bedroom covers album (2008)? They do a rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams" that's got this acoustic dream pop flair to it. It's fanfuckingtastic.