| When I first read that Song Of The Siren had a female lead singer, that not only was an interesting
mix of Korean-American, but also graduated from Harvard, I was curious. Really? With a Harvard
degree, you start a band? Oh well, it's her journey I suppose. Either way, this four piece from the
Bay area of California was just formed in the summer of 2007 and they already have their first album
on the way. "City Lights Are Blinding You" is set to hit stores some time in June 2008 and I wanted to give
it a listen to put my stamp of approval or stamp of shame on it.
As the many emerging female fronted bands (Evanescence, Flyleaf, etc) Song Of The Siren is graceful
and eloquent on the vocal side as Isul belts out chords that are reminiscent of Blondie and even
Jessica Rabbit (from Who Framed Roger Rabbit). I know that sounds weird but the attitude's there.
The band plays a selection of par level rock songs that you may or may not remember because they
aren't anything different then what you might have 5-stared on Guitar Hero.
And while SotS does have music that is catchy, you must live under a stone if you
haven't heard rock like this before. I'd hate to just continue picking at the level of ordinary that
"City Lights Are Blinding You" exhibits because I think you get the point. There are a
few songs that are worth hearing however, as tracks like "Masquerade," "Fabulous" and "Wings Of Hell"
all add extra atmospheres and a tad bit of energy which makes them stick out.
In the end, Isul's voice is what this album should be remembered for. Song Of The Siren's musical
structure is built around it. This is the band's first album and they haven't even been a group for
a year yet, so I'm looking forward to the interesting things they can come up with, with more time
bonding. Simply put, this is a par rock album with a beautiful voice guiding it.
~ Derek
May 02 2008 |
