Reviews

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17/12/08

While the music is tightly played, and each song expertly flows from the previous song into the next, this type of music is (as others have commented) rather common. Thus, in order for me to take an interest, I need to hear some stellar lyrics that really draw me in. I listened to the whole album, and as for myself, the lyrics seemed the same derivative pop songs as always. Now, there is nothing wrong with pop songs or their lyrics, but the best songs usually subvert the tropes in some way, even slightly. This album did not do that, and so, despite excellent musical craftsmanship, it did not feel like an album I would rate amongst the highest I have ever heard.

The last tracks "bonus track" is short, and I felt gipped waiting for such a small piece through all the silence. Unless, a shortened version of Cage's 4:33 was intended, in which case the point is missed.

However, I did greatly enjoy the performance, especially on Starlight (where the carry over from the last track caught my attention and brought me into the song for a moment) and Intransigent5 (the noise of which also transported me into the song, and made me pay attention).

emilvalev

Good album

16/12/08

well done

12/12/08

06/12/08

This album is solid, from the cover art (are those windmills in the Pennsylvania country and a giant passing), to the playing, and to the production. Best of all, these are excellent songs. I think my favorites are "Dirt Nap" and "Starlight". The singing and harmonies are impressive, and the unique sounds in the production really bring these songs to life. I am reluctant to draw comparisons to other artists when I hear new and innovative sounds. But if I had to I would point to several of my personal favorites over the years--Procal Harum, David Bowi, Brian Eno, John Cale, Dave Davies,Roxy Music, to name a few. But this is unique, and I find Manifest Destiny to be a high quality cohesive recording. Look forward to more.

--And by the way, I have a similar view (as in your album cover) from my country home that is nearby in upstate New York, just north of the PA border. Dr. T of The Art Punk Band.

musictomyears

Enjoyable & Good

26/11/08

I really enjoyed the melodies,and the vocals on this album, and the tracks in general .Nice Poppy,alternative,Indie tracks. Well produced and a solidly good album to enjoy.

Arisenprodigy

Deep Structures

26/11/08

I love the different textures and layers used throughout this album. Flows fairly consistent.

ebotts

It has potential, but it seems to fall short

18/07/07

I think you have a good concept, but you seem to draw too much from the repetitive nature of pop, rather than it's catchyness. A lot of this reminds me of the Postal Service (starts off promising, then gets a bit boring), especially "I Hate It here".

I think you would do well to try some stripped down accoustic music (no drum machines, no synthesizers, no over-dubbed vocals). It may not be what you want to do, ultimately, but it helps develop song-writing skills.

The biggest issue I have is that none of these songs grab me and make my ears perk up. I don't know all your influences, but you should try listening to some stuff that contrasts your music, like some Violent Femmes, or some old folk, like Ledbelly or Charlie Patton.

"Best. Winter. Ever." has a nice little tune, when the fiddle (at least that's what I think it is) comes in. "30th Street" has an entertaining chorus, but I was, mostly, underwhelmed.

I don't want to seem like some uneducated, idiot critic. My music is lacking in a lot of the areas I just criticized, so feel free to pick my music apart at www.myspace.com/thegrainythroat