Emarosa – 131
Review by Annette Hansen
When Emarosa went to create the recently released 131, they wanted to make an album that they loved first and foremost. Now that the album is complete, the band feels that they have accomplished that. And when listening to this record, that desire and care really shines through. Fans should be equally as pleased with Emarosa’s progression on 131.
On this album, Emarosa made a point to not only incorporate their more post-hardcore sound, but to infuse more soulful elements with even a hint of pop as well. This is particularly present on tracks like the opening “Hurt,” the funk inspired “Helpless” and the bittersweet “Never.” With 131, the band definitely seems to have found their stride with their sound. With songs like the undeniably catchy and gripping “Sure” and the soaring “Cloud 9,” it’s hard to deny that the band has found a balance between who they’ve been and who they want to be.
Although this album is a big step up for Emarosa, it isn’t free of flaws. Tracks like “Miracle” and even “Hurt,” with the exception of the song’s first 30 seconds, tend to be a bit lackluster and forgettable. Also throughout the album, there is a rawness to singer Bradley Walden’s vocals, and while this works on much of the record on songs like “Helpless” and the haunting “Porcelain,” it’s a bit of a detractor from the overall sound.
131 is an impressive new turn for Emarosa. This newfound confidence looks good on the band and hopefully it follows them as they move forward.
Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Recommended tracks: “Sure,” “Cloud 9” & “Blue”
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