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Proof That There Still Is Great Music Out There Somewhere

Erik J. Fortmeyer | Brooklyn, NY USA | 12/23/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"First things first. If you think the pop music scene today (particularly on American radio) is doing great, then don't even bother to read the rest of this review. This album is for those brave souls who are looking for something better to spin on their CD players. 'The Vessels' 41 minute eponymous album, I dare say, is it. There are 12 cuts of the real deal here that grow on you like summer kudzu in Alabama.So what are they? Well, British guitar pop would be a start. North American alt-country would be more on target. Mix in a little of The Byrds, early Beatles, Coldplay, and maybe even The Silencers and then you would really be hot on their trail. The opening track "Autumn Sounds" will set the British jangling guitar pop right off in the Matthew Sweet vein, but The Vessels take their own tack afterwards. "Hang On To Your Love" picks up the pace before "Hey Hey Hey" starts your toes tapping infectiously while "Memory" appropriately recalls pleasant thoughts of Pink Floyd's "A Pillow of Winds". The song that has sunk it's guitar hooks into me is "Is My Heart (Going Out)". I simply cannot stop playing that song! Harmony, great instrumentation, and tons of good old FUN will (should) make this even a radio favorite. "31st Floor" also has hit single written all over it for those who prefer quality music. "Delight" ends the album on a soaring, tingling note causing you to scurry to the replay button for another listen to 41 minutes of excellence.The bottom line: This is worth trying if you are needing "something better". It will pick you up and put a big musical smile on your face. The only hang-up may be the steep import price. Pick it up then through one of Amazon's "Used & New" dealers. Highly recommended."