Title: Settling
Format Reviewed: MP3
Format Released: 29th April 2014
Reviewed By: Millie Manders
If you are a fan of Jimmy Eat World, Feeder, Alien Ant Farm, Loved Ones and other such pop-punk/Emo bands this deserves a look.
The album crashes into existence with chunky guitars delivering attention-grabbing hooks accompanied by strong vocals full of gravel and passion, and a back beat for those that love to jump.
Sleep In have managed to achieve several things that less experienced studio bands would find somewhat difficult. Firstly, there are some beautifully executed lead guitars, not just in middle 8’s or breaks, but under vocals: without taking away from or making a mess of the overall sound. It's so easy for the mix to become "guitar arrogant", but not here. A Lot To Say is a good example of this.
Secondly, while there is a melancholy undercurrent to much of their music, as is the way with emo genres, it is still driven, pushing the listener forward and allowing a head nod, toe tap and all out groove.
Even the shorter tracks on Settling are filled with enough substance to not just simply be interludes.
All in all Sleep In have created a record that doesn't get boring, creates imagery through story-telling lyrics and heart-string-pulling vocals and harmonies. The musicianship is tight and the balance of tempo is well considered throughout. Clever enough to show their skills (check out Small Scars) but simple enough for someone with no musical knowledge to follow and enjoy. If only all pop-rock records were like this.
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