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Album Details

• Artist: Summerlad
• Album: Themes: International
• Label: Saved By Radio
• Year of Release: 2005
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: dscanland on 2005-04-13

There is quite a buzz around the new Calgary group called Summerlad. They are made up of former members of the ill-fated Primrods. No, Summerlad aren't Primrods take 2. Instead the Garrett McClure found some friends to start a new project and Summerlad was born. And I do have to say this is one of the most refreshing bands that Calgary has seen in quite some time. Themes: International is one diverse ride. The album starts out with "Scalpel Morning", a nod to My Bloody Valentine with swirly walls of guitars and lovely vocals placed neatly on top. "Set To Light" comes out of the haze a little bit but it is still hypnotic. The boys really start the rock fest with "With Bright Knives". On "Vallee of Cobras" we get a true pop song that has fun written all over it. It's one of those tracks that just beg for a huge snowboard scene to accompany it. They slow things down slightly with "Hey There, Aubade". Then we get a complete angular rock of "Spent The Walk". It doesn't stray too far away from convention while still sounding amazingly fresh and original.

I really can't claim any mediocrity to this album except for the closing track "(We Need A) Breakdown Gang". The rest of the album is pop/rock perfection. It's what Calgary needs, no, Canada needs. I am so impressed at the diversity of Themes: International while still remain right on target.

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