I must admit, I think it is quite strange that EVR now has three bands in their catalog that have very similar vocal stylings. Although FAIRWEATHER appear to be more dynamic than both SAVES THE DAY and STRYDER, when it comes down to first impressions, these bands are nearly inseparable. But now that STD (gee, no wonder i’ve never seen them use that acronym) have jumped aboard the Vagrant roster, these are the only two poppy bands on the EVR roster. Anyway, there is more important stuff to discuss about “if they move…kill them,” namely, how good it is! The main force behind FAIRWEATHER’s sound is driving punk rock that has a real thick guitar sound. I really like bands that make their guitar work sound “fat.” The best example of this sound can be found on RANCID’s “And out Come the Wolves,” album. The first track is a real kicker – it just makes me want to get up and dance. FAIRWEATHER are masterful in how they carve “grooves,” into their songs without ever sounding remotely “funkish.” The tracks alternate in mood, moving from an energetic, upbeat swish of intensity to a dark, swirling plod. On the slower, more technical tracks, it’s comparable to the early works of SUNNY DAY REAL ESTATE, and on the faster, edgier songs, the tone screams LIFETIME. This is not to say however that FAIRWEATHER are a band of only infuences, as a quirky personality rapidly develops before the first half of the disc is complete. The vocals are sickly sweet, and sometimes lack the aggression necessary to pull this release to the potential it could have. If all of the vocals pushed as hard as on “Whatever it takes,” this release would be a dream! In fact, that’s probably my biggest complaint with “If they move…” The band sets themselves up nicely for a sucker punch with a few of their tracks, and instead of clinching it off with a killer hook or a heavy mosh throwdown, the band lulls into to some crafty, yet slightly boring guitar parts. I’ll take stroked power over finesse anyday. What needs to be said however is that EVR did a smart thing in picking up these guys as they complement labelmates, THE STRYDER very well and will no doubt, make great touring partners. Even in such an incredibly overcrowded music scene, it’s always great to hear a relatively new band cut out a fresh sound for themselves right from their inception. This is a quite strong debut and if you need a change of pace from your DARKEST HOUR or DROWNINGMAN cds, I recommend this one highly!

Equal Vision

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