Review: Brighten- Early Love EP

Brighten- Early Love EP
Unsigned

I have a special spot in my heart, for bands who stick it out through the rough of times. Bands that are on the verge of calling it quits, but stick it out. Most of the time, a bond is created; and it becomes stronger. The sounds become more comfortable; more enjoyable to the listener. Sometimes, it even reveals assorted sounds. Chico, California's Brighten is one of these feel good stories.

They got in a huge ordeal with the releasing of there 2006 release King Vs. Queen, where the album wasn't supposed to be released, however; it was released. There were also rumors of the band folding due to the departure of drummer Jimmy Richards. While I became nervous, the band announced the releasing of Early Love; the EP. However, again; the EP was pushed back months and months. Finally, we all got some late love.

My inital thoughts of Early Love were something to sound a little more poppier than KVQ. "Carolina" is the complete opposite of my hypothesis. Vocalist/Song Writer Justin Richards beautiful, tranquil voice soothes into the listeners ears. The band continue with the same healthy, soft sound on my personal favorite "We Are Birds". Not only does the band keep the soft sounds, they incorporate different influences into this song. The song could hit any listener; showing how you have your whole life to find "love".

While I've said the EP is soft, it surely still has some of the old, harder Brighten. "Swings" shows where the anger of such a band can come out. It's really refreshing to listen to an EP, that doesn't sound the same on every song. The listener doesn't have to fall asleep at any point in the album, cause there will be a up-beat song waiting for you. Such as the transition between "Love Me Honestly" and "What She Really Wants". "What She Really Wants" shows how the band could pretty much play at any sound they want. The song blends every emotion that a guitar can play, and the effect of Richards voice could have on the listener.

It's been over a year and a half since the last Brighten release. It's been over a year since I've seen this band perform. With "Early Love" finally releasing, I will be very interesting on which approach the band will take on the next record. Either way, it's sure to draw listeners back to listening to them. "Early Love" sound not be over looked. It's the EP you wish bands would put the time into writing this masterpiece. So really, love this band honestly.

Artist: Brighten
Album: Early Love
Label: Unsigned
Purchase: Smartpunk
Release Date: September 2nd, 2008
Reviewed By: Kyle Schnitzer

Score: 8.2