Islands first album “Return to the Sea” was generally well received amongst the indie/alternative crowd upon its initial release on April 4, 2006. Often quoted in must-have lists to indie newcomers, Islands have gained a great amount of recognition from their debut album, and rightfully so. The question that many people were asking was whether or not Islands could keep up the brilliance displayed in their first record. The answer, shortly, is yes.
After it was leaked on April 11, 2008, “Arm’s Way” was received with a bit of skepticism and mixed reviews – as most sophomore albums are. I can only add to the pro-Arm’s Way camp, as I find this album interesting and captivating. From the arrangements of the strings and guitars, to Nick Thorburn’s vocals, this albums soars through pop melodies into dark lyrical mysteries. Through clever song structures “Arm’s Way” somehow manages maintain flow throughout the album. Although this album is far from perfect, and at times seems to boarder on predictable, Islands throw enough change into the mix to keep the listener on their toes.
Highlights include: “Abominable Snow”, “Kids Don’t Know Shit” and “To A Bond”, amongst the other great tracks.
Islands new record “Arm’s Way” is scheduled to be released in stores on May 20, 2008.
MP3: “Abominable Snow” – Islands
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