The Front Bottoms – Talon of the Hawk
Review by Claire Pope
New Jersey natives Brian Sella and Matt Uychich of the Front Bottoms have been stirring up the scene since 2008. With the release of their self-titled LP in 2011, they quickly gained momentum and notoriety for their tongue-in-cheek lyrics, stripped-down sound, and distinguishable vocals. This unstoppable duo keeps the ball rolling with the release of their second LP, Talon of the Hawk.
This album takes everything that was so right with the first LP and makes them even better. The first most notable change is the addition of Tom Warren on bass and Ciaran O’Donnell on keys, trumpet, and guitar. These additions contribute to a much fuller sound that can be heard on the album. Please note, however that “full” is not to be confused with “overcrowded.” The album shows definite discretion in the use of the newly added instruments and ensures that each sound is absolutely essential to the overall tone of the album. They still, however, maintain their signature main acoustic guitar and punchy drums.
The lyrical content is another thing that has become fuller in a way. The quick witted, stream-of-consciousness lyrics the Front Bottoms are known for really came into its own on this one. They tackle coming-of-age in a perfectly balanced mess of heartbreak and hilarity. This album, like the last, delves into issues that affect every young person—breakups, friendships, depression, bad tattoos, student loans, insecurities–with a lighthearted hand. These guys have a real talent of balancing heavy issues with light melodies and lyrics and that really shows here. Each song is an anthem to a period in young adult life that listeners can both laugh and cry to, which is a tough trick to pull off.
The full potential of this new roster is realized in the definite standout tracks of the album “Twin Size Mattress” and “Backflip” which showcase both the fullness of the new ensemble and the improved anthem-like lyrical content, as well as some killer group vocals which are always a win with me.
Overall, the album is a great follow up to their self-titled which is a hard act to follow for sure. I only wish that there was more of a progression between the albums. It isn’t particularly as strong the self-titled but I’m sure it will grow on me over time. Besides, asking for two absolutely perfect albums in a row seems like a lot. That being said, Talon of the Hawk is still a fantastic album and it exceeds the expectations I had for it (like I mentioned, the self-titled is a hard act to follow). It’s cohesive without being repetitive, relatable, and a fun, easy listen. Honestly, who expected any less from the Front Bottoms? I can already tell I will be playing this album religiously throughout the summer and its timeless sound and messages will have me playing it for years to come.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Recommended Tracks: “Twin Size Mattress” and “Backflip
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