Torontos Metric has the ability to appeal to fans on a number of levels: the group captures the likeability of Elastica with the cheekiness of Blondie and then mixes that new wave style with just enough of a growling guitar to give it some oomph. Since their last release, the acclaimed Old World Underground, Where Are You Now?, Metrics sound has morphed slightly; this follow-up is a little more guitar-based and slightly less electronic than their last, a move likely to broaden their fan base even further. Metrics rock-meets-new-wave is not only timely, it is joyful to boot. The driving track Handshakes could easily qualify for the next ipod commercial, while Monster Hospitals retro punk style has a Clash-inspired chorus that will stay in your head for days. By the same token, the bands musical diversity is especially evident in the beautiful The Police and the Private, where one could easily imagine that they are listening to an up-tempo Sarah Harmer track. Metrics cross-genre appeal is at least party due to frontwoman Emily Haines delivery. A smart writer and performer, Haines contributions to the Broken Social Scene collective have already made her voice somewhat familiar, and in her own element she shines especially bright. From her delicate whispers (the Pink Floyd-esque Ending Start) to her Eurotrash-inspired yelps (Live It Out) Haines has the it factor that makes indie rock critics swoon, and keeps fans dedicated. More removed from the synth of Old World Underground, Live it Out is heavier with the bass, and crazy expressive with the guitar. The new sound is bold and beautiful, but unfortunately, the songs just arent as catchy as the previous albums. I dont mean to say this heavier rock style cannot be catchy; it certainly can be, but the latest efforts of Metric dont have the addictive flair of say, IOU, Combat Baby, Hustle Rose, and Succexy. Most of the songs are great here, but not as memorable. Emilys lyrics are just as clever and just as honest, but the melodic hooks are missing. Itll appeal to fans for sure, and expand the fan base to include those who prefer their rock a touch heavier, but I was made a fan by Metrics previous efforts. vinylrecords.ca/metric-live-2005-canada-indie-rock-p-17730.html
Posted on: Wed, 15 Oct 2014 23:51:25 +0000
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