Media Review

The Federalists' second, self-titled, album is a short and sweet sophomore album that harkens back to music’s yesteryears. Beginning off with the slow-paced "Friendly Fire" which has a Death Cab indie rock sound laid over some Postal Service electronics before picking up pace towards the end leading perfectly into "Italian Robot." What jumped out at me over the first few listens of this album was lead singer Luke Franks’ vocal reminiscence to Elvis Costello. The Costello-esque vocals really stand out over the airy pop rocker and first single "City Girl." "Impossible" has a big doo-wop feel with its slow stroll.

"Tree Song" is a personal favorite taking points from its title with a more organic sound and a great chorus. The song reminds me of "Summer’s End" off of Foo Fighters latest album Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace. "Explode" has distorted vocals that sound like they are coming out of a busted car speaker while you are cruising down a back highway through the Midwest with your hair blowing in the wind. The song ends out with a wailing guitar and some harmonized 'oohs.' "Strong Enough To Hit" begins with birds chirping just as Franks adds his own call into the mix. Another light jaunt through the park, the song illustrates a perfect spring day walking through Central Park. "Superball" adds in some jazzy background melodies to close out the album with a steady sound.

Steady is perhaps the perfect word to describe the album's flow and sound. The album never stretches too far out of its sound but rather keeps on rolling through with a steady jaunt. This makes for a perfect backdrop to any weekend choirs around the house (this has been personally tested by yours truly) but may not be an album you can sit down and soak in. This is not meant to take away from the album's genuinely fun hum that still displays a sound that is a cut above the fray of today's music scene.

reviewed by Matt Zimmerman