Let me start of by saying that I do think Surfer Blood’s new record Astro Coast is pretty darn good. I don’t know if it as great as some people think, but I will buy it (on vinyl of course). The songs are super catchy, and they the guy’s voice sounds like James Mercer’s, really great guitar pop. If you take away one thing from this piece, let it be that. If you take away two, let it be this…
My problem with the record is the fact that two songs remind me of the Arcade Fire’s incredible debut Funeral. I had listened to it a couple times through without noticing, but once a friend pointed out that the guitar harmonic song so aptly named “Harmonix” sounded somewhat similar to the Arcade Fire song “Neighborhood #2″.
Check this out.
Arcade Fire – Neighborhood #2 (Laika)
Today in honor of their “Best New Music” tag, I thought I would give the record another play at work. Too my surprise another song entitled ”Fast Jabroni” sounds like another Arcade Fire song “Rebellion (Lies)”.
Try this on for size.
Arcade Fire – Rebellion (Lies)
Now that we went on that Adventure together… I don’t think Surfer Blood are even conscious of the similarities (you folks may not even agree that they sound similar, but that’s ok). Sometimes genius comes down and touches people, and sometime it is similar to others. How many people have painted the Last Supper? This shouldn’t take the wind out of their sails (no pun related to surfing whatsoever intended) I hope to see them on their tour in Charlotte or Atlanta, but for these reasons I will never think this record is the best thing ever. I do think they have a great future, and you should pick up this album.
Buy it here.
