Duvall wastes no time. From the first three chords of Volume and Density, their relentless, high-voltage modern rock grabs hold and never lets go. Surging electric guitars and hefty drums lend added energy to truly fun voc... more »al sounds. As former members of the band Smoking Popes, Duvall comes together again to create a harmony-layered musical joy ride you?ll want to get on again and again.« less
Duvall wastes no time. From the first three chords of Volume and Density, their relentless, high-voltage modern rock grabs hold and never lets go. Surging electric guitars and hefty drums lend added energy to truly fun vocal sounds. As former members of the band Smoking Popes, Duvall comes together again to create a harmony-layered musical joy ride you?ll want to get on again and again.
"I am truly at a loss of words with how good this cd is, and if you give it a chance you may be too. Josh Caterer (form. of Smoking Popes) was certainly put on this earth to do one thing, write great songs and sing them with all of his heart. He does exactly that on this cd. His smooth, stylistic vocal style along with one of the most dynamic sounds in music make this cd and this band not only one of the most original today but perhaps the most enjoyable. Like I said, I'm at a loss for words so do yourself a favor and listen to Duvall. You will not be disappointed."
Very Fittingly Titled
Brandon Hagen | Arlington, Wa | 08/28/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I came across these guys in a CD review where Alternative Press gave them a "5 out of 5" which they most definately deserve. Curious, I picked up a copy as soon as I could find one, and I wasnt dissapointed in the least. This album represents everything I love about good music.
Josh Caterer has one of the most amazing voices I have ever heard, his voice is pure gold. To back up the voice he is also blessed with talented songwriting abilities, as well as equally talented band mates. Caterer sincerly wears his heart on his sleeve which includes singing about his relationship with God. This album gets 5 stars in my opinion because of his ablilty to convey thought provoking lyrics that have real volume and density without coming off cliche or preachy.
The guitars are just as beautiful as the singing: melodic, raw, and catchy...rewarding multiple listens. Not a weak song on this disk. Plankeye fans would love this, and if you like Volume & Density then I would highly recommending checking out Plankeye's "Relocation". The two albums are like brothers or something. Can't wait for Duvall's next one...these guys are amazing.
"
The Party's Just Beginning
John McRae | Atlanta | 08/16/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"As a big fan of the Smoking Popes, I approached this album with guarded enthusiasm. I personally feel that Destination Failure was the best Popes album, so I hoped that Volume & Density would continue the upward progression in Josh Caterer's songwriting.
I'm happy to report that the songs here are just as strong as his previous band's final effort. Gone, however, is the general feel of melancholy that permeated much of the Pope's catalogue. I read an interview with Mr. Caterer where he mentioned that following his conversion to Christianity he wanted to create more profound, inspiring music. The songs do seem to be more pointed, meaning that it doesn't take much deciphering to glean the subject of the lyrics. For those listeners that aren't Christians, the songs aren't manifestly spiritual; most of the time pronouns take the place of proper names.
Standout tracks include the Spandau Ballet cover "True" and the immediately memorable "Racine" and "Standing At the Door"."
Extremely refreshing
Jay | Denver, Co, USA | 04/28/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Its really, really difficult to put to words and music the truth and love in the christian message without sounding too preachy, holier-than-thou, or cheezy. Josh Caterer manages to relate his convictions with honesty and beauty, as only a songwriter of his credentials could do. Singing straight from the heart, as he was made famous for in his Smoking Popes days, he's written a collection of unpretentious songs that achieve just the right balance of melody, truth, and honesty. Its not condescending, its not overly judgemental, its just deeply personal and sincere music... just what I've been looking for."
Great stuff!
Tony M. Guerrero | Petaluma, CA USA | 04/01/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Duvall never misses a beat. This album will make you feel good. There's not a bad song here. They even do a great interpretation of Spandeau Ballet's "True." If you're looking for an album you can listen to over and over and not get tired of it, buy this album. They're even better live."