Album Review: Restorations – Restorations

It just occurred to me this evening that I have not once talked about a band that I adore.  This is one of those bands I feel everyone should have heard about by now, and for all I know, you have.  I was introduced to them a few years back and pretty much have adored them since.  The band I speak so highly of (I know the anticipation is killing you) is none other than Philadelphia’s post-punk indie rock outfit Restorations.  Seriously, how in the hell did I NOT review these guys before?

Yes, I am a wee bit late on this one, but you know what?  Screw it.  So what if their self-titled debut album dropped in 2011 on Tiny Engines and was repressed on vinyl last summer because so many vinyl junkies ate it up?  I feel the need to share this amazing group in hopes that they score one more fan per my recommendation and I am pretty certain that will be happening.

The moment “Nonlocality” started with the laid back intro, I just knew I was in for something good.  The gritty, raw opener brought a certain country folk feel to my ears and then everything changed for the better when the singing started and the hypnotizing guitar solo floated in the background.  With just one song in, I was sitting there pointing to it as my favorite.  “West River” followed carrying that same intensity that impressed me from the get go.  The songs really reminded me what would happen if Goo Goo Dolls and Hot Water Music collaborated, yeah I know, weird.

“Canadian Club” had an Against Me! feel to it at the start but soon mellowed into a great jam.  I really loved vocalist Jon Loudon’s raspy singing style on this song but have the feeling that this track was intended to be heard live by all.  “Sideways House” leaned more towards a 90s alt-rock that was welcomed to my ears.  “Broken Vacuum”, I feel, showcased the band as musicians well.  Hearing the distorted bass at the beginning  joined with the drums and guitars just moments later sounded so good.  So many songs these days are written so quickly that you sometimes miss hearing a well put together track.  The same goes for the closing track “When You’re Older”.  It was not just an end song, it was a crowning achievement by the band and any listener will be able to hear that.

Restorations combines the right bunch of genres of music including rock, country, and punk making for one hell of a listen.  You say like Elliot Brood?  Listen to Restorations.  Lucero?  Listen to Restorations.  Gaslight Anthem?  Yeah, listen to them, I seriously doubt you will regret it and if you do, sorry.  I am surprised this album is not bigger than it already is and I can not wait to hear what they come out with next.  I am predicting something amazing.

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