Rockin' Reviews - Features

MuteMath, "Armistice"

MuteMath, an electro rock band out of New Orleans, though well received by fans and critics, remains relatively unknown to the public.

The band's first glimpses of fame came after performing in the 2006 summer festivals Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Vans Warped Tour and V Festival, as well as being featured as The Fray's opening act during their Winter College tour the following year.

Known for their lively stage presence, whose antics include keyboard handstands and guitar tosses, MuteMath took their energetic music to the studio in early 2006 resulting in the band's self-titled debut.

Since then, MuteMath has embarked on a headlining tour of their own, as well as returning to the studio to begin work on their follow-up album, "Armistice." A single from the new album, "Spotlight," was featured in the "Twilight" soundtrack, and MuteMath was soon on its way to becoming a household name.

The band's sophomore album "Armistice," released Aug. 25, has an unexpected increase in maturity and complexity since the debut record. Though some of the raw energy the band always played with live has been toned down, the album maintains unmistakable depth and style. Also missing are the unique instrumentals between songs, used on the debut, which allowed each song to smoothly flow into the next. "Armistice," however, showcases each song individually, making each track often drastically different from the preceding one. Also included are slow, piano-driven ballads that display lead singer Paul Meany's surprisingly impressive vocal and melodic skills.

Both "Armistice" and their self-titled album, "MuteMath," are exhilirating listening experiences. Though the band has varied their sound slightly between recordings, and despite still being relatively unknown, they remain one of the most unique bands in the indie rock scene.

Arctic Monkeys, "Humbug"

Also known for their high energy and wit, English alternative band Arctic Monkeys took a more somber approach to their third studio release "Humbug." While previous releases "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" and "Favourite Worst Nightmare" included, and became known for, lyrics of amusing sardonic qualities, Arctic Monkeys' lead singer and lyricist Alex Turner again does not disappoint in "Humbug."

The accompanying music, however, contains guitar riffs of which Metallica would be proud. The sound of this album has hints of '90s-inspired grunge with a mix of their distinct Brit pop style. Additionally, many songs, including "Fire and the Thud" and "Cornerstone," are at a slower pace than expected from the usually upbeat band.

Their first single from the album, "Crying Lightning," attempts to bridge the gap between old Arctic Monkeys' style to what they have progressed to. The music is not quite as briskly paced as their previous releases, though considerably lively compared to other tracks on "Humbug."

Turner's singing, however, is what gives the song that extra edge. Though slightly different than the band's previously releases, "Humbug" does not disappoint.

Imogen Heap, "Ellipse"

Undoubtedly one of the most innovative, brilliant and likable of musicians, Imogen Heap must be admired, above all, for her independence and talent. Her single-handed undertaking of her third studio release "Ellipse" which was recorded in her home studio in England with Heap writing, performing and producing the entire project herself, gives an intimate glimpse into the mind and heart of its creator.

Initially one-half of the electronica duo Frou Frou, Heap soon decided her skills were best displayed solo and released her first solo album "I-Megaphone" in 1998. Heap quickly became a much sought-after collaborator, most recently co-writing and producing the song "Now or Never" with classical pop singer Josh Groban on his 2006 album "Awake."

While recording "Ellipse," Heap also kept a video blog of her work, which she shared with fans throughout the months preceding its Aug. 25 release. Heap also used Twitter, along with her blog, as a marketing tool in anticipation of the album's drop date. She appeared on Late Night with David Letterman Thursday, Aug. 18, performing the album's first single "First Train Home."

Heap embraces the moniker of a one-woman band, often darting across stage to press a button or twist a knob. Her sound is computer synthesized, but it is doubtful whether her songs would sound as graceful under any other conductor. From the chilling "Canvas," to the simple and beautiful "Little Bird," Heap's "Ellipse" could easily be the best release of 2009.

*Published in 2009 Issue 1 of The Globe.
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