Album Review: Run For Cover - Mixed Signals
Posted on Play Crack The Sky Music on October 20th, 2011.
In 2011, label samplers/compilations are more or less the norm. However Run For Cover Records have taken a more sensible route with ‘Mixed Signals.’ Whilst some labels just sporadically throw out free samplers, RFC have taken the time and effort to treat this as a legitimate release. This is just one reason this compilation has credibility, and that’s not before you’ve delved into it.
Although it’s a Run For Cover compilation, it’s not a release made up of bands who are part of the label. Instead the label has produced a mixture of familiar and emerging bands from the current progressive punk/post-hardcore scenes, all of which make their mark on this twelve track compilation. Polar Bear Club kick things off with Killin’ It, a dense, stomping hardcore punk number that showcases the bands blend of pop-punk-esq melodies and aggressive hardcore well, whilst Balance and Composure continue the momentum they had with this year’s Separation with Seahorses, a delicate alt-rock track that dwindles in the verse before bursting through familiar radiance in the chorus. It’s a style and sound that fits the band well.
On Distress Signals, Tigers Jaw bring an upbeat yet mellow sound that goes along a nice pace, with vocalist Adam McIlwee and Brianna Collins combining neat harmonies together in the chorus which makes the track stand out early on.
Next up is Hostage Calm, and much like last year’s self-titled album, The ‘M’ Word comes off as summery 60’s pop-influenced number. It’s bright and sensibly structured. Whereas The Menzingers are your straight-up punk band on Irish Goodbyes; a lively track with driving guitars and catchy chorus.
Following on is CSTVT and Bassett St., a mellow and twinkling alt-rock number with a strong chorus and good guitar parts.
Unfortunately Daylight’s Cursed fails to make much of an impression. In the context of this compilation, their brand of heavy post-hardcore rock sounds slightly too familiar and does not leave a lasting impression.
End of a Year Self Defense Family put the compilation back on track with I’ve Got An Idea…, a relaxing duet featuring Caroline Corrigan, who brings a soothing tone that compliments the bands guitar work and also plays off Patrick Kindlon’s vocals well.
Daytrader’s Texts and Tomes comes across a throwback to early 2000’s alt-rock/post-hardcore bands like Further Seems Forever and Hey Mercedes; a mixture of driving, aggressive guitars and harmonious and memorable choruses that have a lasting impression.
Next up is Coats by Make Do and Mend, a fiery punk rock, Hot Water Music-like number with fierce guitars, raw and passionate vocals. If you’re familiar with the bands work, you know what to expect.
One of my personal highlights on this release is The Tower and The Fool and their light, country-esq track, Die Alone. Slighty upbeat but equally ballad-like, The Tower and The Fool lyrically draw you in with a story of heartbreak, whilst musically the bands guitars twang and somewhat carry the track home but perhaps more importantly, combine brilliantly well with Alex Correia’s vocals.
The World Is A Beautiful Place And I Am No Longer Afraid To Die bring the compilation to a conclusion with a short acoustic folk number; To the Janitor the King, with its twinkling guitars and overall relaxing approach. It’s a satisfying conclusion that does not exceed itself.
With Mixed Signals, it is evident why labels like Run For Cover, No Sleep, Topshelf, etc continue to be noticed and supported thoroughly, as from start to finish this compilation showcases talented bands that deserve to be noticed. Like old Vagrant Records samplers and Atticus Clothing compilations before it, I’m sure Mixed Signals and future similar compilations, will prove to be influential in the coming years and have a distinctive impact. It’s a credit to Run For Cover (and other labels) for supporting emerging bands and giving them the opportunity to grow with compilations like this.
On the whole, Mixed Signals sensibly showcases a strong batch of bands that needs to be heard, even if there are some you are unfamiliar with. It’s a worthwhile purchase that potentially has a lasting impact.
4.5/5
Mixed Signals by Run For Cover Records is available now.
Purchase on CD, Vinyl, and Bandcamp.
Run For Cover Records links: Official Site|Online Store|Facebook|Tumblr|Twitter
(Source: pctsmusic)
