Greyest of Blue Skies
The distorted figure on the album cover may say that this band's music is fast and riff-oriented with vocals reminiscent of the thrash era. That is its initial impression to me because its been a long time since I've seen artwork on albums like this. Listening to it, I was completely wrong. Finger Eleven's music reminds me of Silverchair, melodic with heavily distorted guitars to back every twist and turn of its singing. Nothing sounds like thrash metal here. No speed, not technical and almost no double bass, almost like grunge.
In terms of songwriting, I found it noticeable that the band had an inclination to start quiet and suddenly attack with a heavy crash of instruments. This is very evident on almost every song on the album. The band is good though in terms of putting music to its mediocre lyrics, always incorporating back-up singing. First time, My Carousel, Bones and Joints and For The Ocean are songs I recommend on this record.
This album is not for rapcore enthusiasts. This is not Oasis either because they play better than they do. Its for people whose relaxation is defined by simple guitars disguised with a lot of distortion.