CIRCA SURVIVE - On Letting Go

CIRCA SURVIVE
On Letting Go
Equal Vision Records
9/10




One couldn’t ask for a more befitting visual to convey an album’s music than the cover art which graces “On Letting Go,” the sophomore effort from Philadelphia’s Circa Survive. Summing up the extra-planetary sound of the band with a unique representation showing that the release of ego can be a rather uplifting experience, the vibrant colors and inventive creativity inherent in this particular package fall perfectly in line with the experience of hearing this outfit’s soaring sound.

Dazzling harmonies, fluid shifts in time and uniquely engaging songwriting found here reveal Circa Survive as one of the most progressive groups that modern rock has to offer today. Spring- boarding onto the national scene with a perfectly auspicious introduction to the world, the shimmering, fluttering “Juturna,” set the stage for future wonders and “On Letting Go” unquestionably lives up to all expectations.

Vocalist Anthony Green solidifies his status as one of rock music’s most spellbinding crooners, his highly palatable vocal acrobatics elevated above the group’s dreamy melodies in a manner which seems almost effortless. The personality his voice brings to songs like “Living Together” and “The Greatest Lie” is at once charming and undeniably brilliant. A driving focus introduces “In The Morning And Amazing…,” and as the band shifts gears into a flickering counterpoint, the genius in it’s approach is more than evident. Circa Survive exercises restraint when need be, a point of character that’s often lacking in other groups striving for an experimental rock sound. Whether sleepwalking through a snowy, Cure-like groove or uplifting with a vibrant, Beatles-style base, the strong musicianship and sparkling vision of the group shines through like a life-altering revelation.

Often, the group’s expansive creativity makes one wonder what might happen next. When that unexpected turn finally arrives, everything simply falls into place. Predictability is not a dogma which Circa Survive subscribes to. From the urgency and restlessness of “The Difference Between Medicine And Poison Is In The Dose” to spiraling, cosmic undertones of “Close Your Eyes To See,” the band never fails to impress its originality upon the listener. Couple that factor with a formidable arsenal of ringing melodies and memorable moments and you come up with a stunningly enjoyable formula.

“On Letting Go” solidifies the identity that was merely hinted at on “Juturna.” Taking things to an entirely different level with bolder choruses, more impassioned performances and a self confidence that is positively radiant, Circa Survive has earned a place amongst modern rock’s most entertaining acts. This record is not merely entertainment, however. It is a deeply compelling, quantifiably fantastic achievement that demands to be heard.