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When Say Anything‘s Max Bemis decided to join forces with Saves the Day‘s Chris Conley, kids all across the globe were salivating as they awaited the first proper release from Two Tongues. Releasing the album via emo stalwart, Vagrant Records, meant that the union was destined to find an eager audience.
The best thing one could hope for in this union is for the lyrical content, as Bemis and Conley have long been penning amazing lyrics for their respective bands. Their efforts here are, as expected, nothing short of their individual accomplishments, each coupling great rhyming moments, often pairing them with one another effortlessly. This is precisely how it was supposed to be done. Sure, they’re still tackling the same old issues, but they do it well.
Moving beyond, it would be difficult not to comment on the vocal compliments these two offer to the other. Conley’s high pitch is counter-balanced by the heavier, deeper tones of Bemis. Their intermingling of vocal parts adds a musical element to the album that is difficult to come by outside of Kanye‘s studio. Not to mention, the combination of vocal harmonies definitely keeps the album fresh, which the gentlemen have been unable to do in recent efforts with their mainstays.
Musically, you just have to combine the stylings of both groups. Sure, it sounds simple enough in theory, but to fuse these two songwriters, and their distinctive styles, one must jump leaps and bounds. The heavier elements almost certainly owe to Conley, as Bemis’ forte seems to be in crafting bouncing pop-punk elements along with angular guitar chops. At times, the combination creates some unique moments, such as the Weezer-esque “Don’t You Want to Come Home.” It might even have a little bit of Billy Corgan in the vocals, but you’ll have to see for yourself.
Perhaps the best moments come on this album when they keep it short, as in under three-minutes, as some of the songs can drag out just a little bit much. But, when they keep the elements contained and simple, they hit hard and fast, just as you would want from a band of this ilk. It’s a solid album for those searching for a more upbeat sound as Spring rolls itself out, which apparently isn’t for another six weeks. Hopefully this will get you there with your spirits up.
[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/02-if-i-could-make-you-do-things.mp3]
Download: Two Tongues – If I Could Make You Do Things [MP3]
Your ATH crew had another fun DJ Happy Hour last night over at Oddwood brewing, and this time we once again were asked to curate an Emo heavy theme. While we spun the records on the tables, Nate and I added everything into a big playlist so you folks who missed out could stream after the fact. You’ll rock, maybe slightly bob your head, and scream out those familiar lyrics. We’ve got this playlist for you Spotify people and for the realist of Apple purists.
