Nevermind the band's name... oh so enjoyable
Paul Allaer | Cincinnati | 09/23/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The Austin, TX band I Love You But I've Chosen Darkness boasts one of the most unusual band names I have ever encountered, and it begs the question: does it distract from the music, or does it complement it? After the band's self-released 2003 EP, now finally comes the full-fletched debut album.
"Fear Is On Our Side" (12 tracks, 52 min.) fleshes out (and matures) the sound of the 2003 EP, with great results. If you are not familiar with their sound, imagine a mix of the 80s Cure-meets-nowadays-Interpol. The band creates a mood with dark yet at times poppy and even danceable songs, to great effect. Check out the opener "The Ghost", which sets the table for the album. "Lights" is one of the few truly upbeat songs, along with "At Last At All". There are a couple of instrumentals along the way, creating more of the dark (but not scary) mood. Other highlights include "Last Ride Together", which truly is reminiscent of the 80s Cure sound, just great, and the closer "If It Was Me".
This is a great album. And it even translates better in a live setting. I saw ILUBICD in concert recently, and these songs ROCKED hard, much more so then on the studio versions. People may scratch their heads at the unusual band name, but I hope they will go beyond that and give this band a chance. Highly recommended!"
Wonderful synth and guitar soundscape pop
Fading lights over city streets | New York, NY | 07/30/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I found this band looking for music that resembled The Bravery, Depeche Mode, and a few of my other favorite bands. While 'I love you..." is a different band altogether, I was very happy to add this album to my collection. The music is very dreamy and even though a song will start with a strong bass or drum riff, you will be surprised how the song will descend into a calming soundscape. For me, this band is perfect to listen to when you are in a mood to relax. Not gym music.
Newbies to the band should check out their first single "According to Plan". For me, I don't particularly have a favorite song because the album blends together so well and I simply enjoy it as a whole (although one would be pleased to check out "we choose faces").
This is one album you will be happy to say you own, and a band you will be proud to say you started listening to before they hit it big.
"
Great mood
stateless | mexico | 01/10/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"great album by Ilybicd, dark mood, good performace, good songs especially the ghost & lets ride together"