City And The Sea may just have found their niche. After spending a lot of time on the road over the past few years promoting earlier EPs Long Time Comin’ and Leave A Light On, the Hamilton, Ontario band recorded and released their third project, Action Figures. New band members Jon Daly (guitar) and Joe Piccolo (drums) have brought with them a reputation for playing loud and raucous but melody laced rock, and have spent the last several months melding with the original City And The Sea members on a tour promoting their new EP.
Third time’s the charm? Could be. Action Figures is a fun listen, showcasing the band members’ varied writing styles which make for a diverse sound. “Strange Feeling” kicks of the EP, a roots rock number reminiscent of early-eighties Springsteen. Solid rhythms drive “Footprints” and The Northern Pikes could record “Railroad” as their own . The slow pop of “How Do You Do?” seems out of place on this record, but delivers another serving of the bands varied musical interests and influences.
“Living It Up” stands out. A memorable tune, with pop sensibiities and blues overtones. Has Matchbox 20 met The Black Crowes? What a brilliantly written and exquisitely crafted pop song with an alternative edge. Nick Cino’s voice rocks. This guy can sing. The guitar and drums provide texture to support the mood of the vocals while the harmonies demonstrate the band’s fondness for 60’s pop. One listen is not enough.
City And The Sea have tremendous potential. This effort may have been an exercise finding themselves and their sound, they need look no further. These guys have talent and these guys have heart. Expect big things from them.
Listen to City And The Sea here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSLyENKhCfU&feature=player_detailpage#t=0s
https://icantbelievemyearz.wordpress.com/2013/05/28/review-archives/
