As their biography reads, “Piano-based rhythms, sugar coated pop hooks and Beach Boys-esque harmonies aren’t things would expect to hear from the Hopeless/Sub City roster… But Sub City‘s latest signing, Orange County – based Melee, incorporates these aforementioned elements to formulate an album rich with songs that merge the indie rock sound with pop sensibilities,†I couldn’t have written it better, if I had to write a review for this CD everyday of my life.
As mentioned in my review of “Hopelessly Devoted to You, Volume 5†where Melee features with two tracks, I was immediately warmed by Melee‘s album and the infectious up lifting sound. Second track “New Day†attracts me like a kid in a sweet shop. Its fantastic up beat sound, melody, clever guitar leads and perfect delivery make it the leader of the pack for me. There’s just something about frontman Chris Cron and his voice that is something more than most bands can achieve, combine it with Melee‘s note perfect instrumental lines and it’s a sound you can’t help but get into. Occasionally Melee remind me of The Smiths (please, let me explain!) I think it’s the vocals, plain and simple and rarely getting angry or aggressive. Just pure singing. This is reflected through-out the album, but check out track 3, “The War†for a taste of what I’m on about. Every one of the 11 tracks on this CD has the potential to be a personal favourite to anyone who buys this album. “Perfect Mess,†“Lions Cage†and the amazing “Sleeping through Autumn,†are all tracks that make this album special.
Additionally, proceeds from this album will go towards Orangewood Pals, an organisation to fight child abuse in Orange County, Calif, where Melee volunteer their free time at the children’s home, assisting staff and mentoring the children. The warmth and sights of summer maybe departing but the sounds will remain with Melee and their first major full length release on Sub City/Hopeless records. Anyone in need of a feel good album should look no further than “Everyday Behaviour.â€
Pete