Jeremy Larson- Salvation Club
Music nowadays is nothing like it used to be. I mean, everything sounds great. Bands come out with albums more often now, but they usually rush them. Then other bands sound too similar to other bands, which labels bands with useless genres. When a band sounds like another band, it usually brings down the stock of the band they are being compared too. However, this case is completely false with singer/song writer Jeremy Larson. Larson released his self titled debut in 2007. Later that year, I purchased the record, and immediately comparisons ranging from Copeland to This Day and Age were brought up. His self titled record delivered soft vocals, a slew of pianos, and just calming music. It became a mystery how one man could make such sounds, without a backing band. It just demonstrates true talent. Larson doesn't slack off, he takes a huge leap forward with his second record, Salvation Club.
On his second effort, Larson opens Salvation Club with "Exposition." Starting with different orchestral instruments, the song builds up into Larsen’s soft, soothing voice. Vocally, Larson gives artists such as Copeland and This Day and Age something to improve on. He continues his musicianship on "Purgatory." Comparisons ranging from Stephen Christian of Anberlin, with piano melodies that will have you humming for days. The song winds down with the mix of piano and vocals, making the listener hungry for more.
Larson does something amazing on this record: making the listener wonder how he created such beautiful music. As heard in songs such as "Where They Sleep" and "Self-Esteem", Larson creates mysterious melodies. Soft, pretty vocals, which are highlight by the writing ability of Jeremy. After these movements, JL goes into a different direction. Larson comes into the upbeat mode with "Footsteps." The combination of pounding percussion and his haunting piano work, Jeremy is hitting it hard on every track. The haunting melodies continue in "Portrait" and throughout the rest of the album. Those kind of melodies that can make you emotionally feel something, which has become rare in music. "Activist" is another song highlighting the talent of Larson. The banging of piano keys send chills down your spine, which leads to the ultimate chill buster in "Goodnight."
What Larson does is something different. He blends so many different emotions into one album. Generally, artists try to stick with one overall emotion, making the album a bore fest. Jeremy Larson doesn't do that. Larson's haunting vocals and incredible musical talent will inspire others to create music. I wouldn't be surprised to see him on a movie soundtrack soon. He's released two wonderful records; Salvation Club shouldn't be overlooked.
Overall: 8.7%
