Ready When You Are,
BrightenI like it when bands I've never heard of send me Cds which turn out to be really, really good. This one left me with no expectations at all - it's just a CD in a paper case, no bio, nothing. But after popping this in my CD player I was left stunned - Brighten, cliched name or not, are pretty good. Borrowing elements of bands like Mae, Copeland and Acceptance, if you remember a band called Astoria you'd be there or thereabouts as to what this three piece sound like. They're whistful and poppy, with breathy vocals that often don't get too much above a whisper.
While I really enjoyed this self-released five-tracker, other people who I've played these songs too have been less impressed. Opener 'Television' is perhaps the most instant track of the bunch, but isn't really the band's best. That accolade would possibly be saved for 'Place Less Traveled' or 'Just Breathe', both of which are cracking songs. The band often come across at a Copeland or Mae-esque pace, although without the synth or keys.
The closing 'Friends For Lovers' could really be something special and sounds like it would fit snugly onto Jimmy Eat World's 'Clarity', but sadly whereas the outro cries out to be repeated for several minutes, it rather abruptly ends and the chance to build things up is lost. Still, Brighten have certainly done enough with this EP to rouse my interest and I believe US indie labels will come knocking. A forthcoming tour with Eisley will not do them any harm - expect 2006 to be very bright indeed...
www.wearebrighten.com
Paul
