The Lights Are Blinding With This One

Looking at reviews for this album, I noticed several similarities between them. Not only were they overwhelming positive, but there were comparisons to Anberlin and Relient K, and it was definitely my style of music. So I had to check out this album. And let me say, that folks, the critics are overwhelmingly right on this one. No ifs, ands, or buts, just wows and whoas. This is the next big thing and they certainly have the debut to show for it.

In describing the sound of this band, it would be accurate to say they're a cross of the best elements of Anberlin and Relient K, with a little bit of Metro Station mixed in for extra fun, with hints of Yellowcard. It's pop rock at some of its best. And even though these songs aren't exactly catchy by themselves, you'll remember the general feel of the song, and pick up the chorus after you hear the album a few times.

Picking a favorite track off this album is rather hard to do, because you could basically come to any point in the record and say, "that's an awesome track." But that isn't exactly the best of news for DJ's, which need single material, and none of these songs really stand out as singles that could rock radio out all summer long. So I can see it hard to grow a fan base for this band unless somebody picks up the record, or probably sees them in concert.

This album is all about rock melodies, and they are plenty to be had. The music very pleasing, very rockin', and embodies emotions and feelings. They do sound like something that Yellowcard, The Starting Line or Boys Like Girls would do, but haven't done, which strangely gives this an almost original feel. Maybe it's because these sounds have never sounded this good combined before.

Vocally, all of it is perfect for the songs and the band. It helps give the band their trademark sound. And while I would like a little bit more vocal variety, it all seems to work, just like the rest of the album. But wait, it does change a bit vocally on the electronic/synth extravaganza that is "Mile Away." That song also provides very pleasing lyrics like the rest of the album. And while nothing really seems to stand out one-on-one, it all stands as one and does provide glimpses of really great lyrics, although what is here isn't anything to sneeze at either. Again, it all works.

Overall, while no track exactly stands out, all of them mesh into a cohesive and amazing record. A truly wondrous debut not matched in ages, if ever. It's certainly one of the best albums of the year in any genre, Christian or Mainstream. It all flows, it all rocks, it's fun, it's well-done, well-written and just plain amazing. One thing is for sure, Capital Lights will have a truly wonderful journey ahead of them, and I can't wait to see what they'll throw at us next.