Reviewed by Ian Webber

Even after several listens, this debut release by the young Minnesota band is difficult to pin down. Throughout the album two jarring styles continually compete for top spot, never seeming to settle into a comfortable listen. There are some admirable pop, punk tunes in the style of MxPx that are credible in their own right. Mike Champa has a voice that is easy to listen to and provides quality, especially on the clean sounding "Run Away". In addition and liberally sprinkled throughout are solid double bass sections that carry raw shouts and gang vocals a match for any number of similar hardcore bands. The brooding "The Midnight Society" showcases the rhythm and bass sections of this talented young outfit at their best. There is no doubt that FATS can write hook laden, catchy tunes with singalong choruses. Production on the album is also first-rate, giving it a crisp, tight edge. The combination of the two styles rarely really works however, either too saccharin for the rawer moments or too jarring with the harmonised pop choruses. This release is far from bad, but its Jekyll and Hyde nature holds it back from being a great release.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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