Review by Shannon Shumaker
Even though it is technically an EP, Lakeshore’s debut release plays like an epic full-length from start to finish. With a solid sound and anthemic mood that follows the band from track to track, 41 is sure to launch Lakeshore further into the spotlight.
These massive sounds and the overall mood of the EP is established quickly in the first track, “Heart (To The Fans),” which builds anticipation with intense guitars and captivating vocals. Dark and haunting, this song serves as a perfect introduction for the seven tracks that follow. Surprisingly, the next song, “Future” is rather bright. Instead of following the rabbit hole down the dark path that the opening track paves, “Future” is really optimistic in lines such as “They try to keep us down but we survive,” delivered with smooth vocals and coupled with stunning guitar work.
Following suit is the beautiful “Taking…,” but unfortunately, some of the energy that builds throughout the first two tracks is lost in this mellow interlude. Stick with it, though, because the way this song leads into “Control,” both musically and lyrically is flawless. Much like “Future,” “Control” is carried by bright instruments, stunning vocal harmonies and a driving rhythm section before “Kings” takes things back to the beginning a few songs later with darker, distorted guitars and a haunting mood.
The songs on 41 are larger than life as they soar through your speakers, but there are times that you might find yourself longing for a slightly harder hitting sound. This happens during “Kings,” but thankfully it comes with a few saving graces as well. The guitar work in this song, although not necessarily its focal point, is complex and quite impressive, constantly changing and flowing with the mood. Bringing 41 to the powerful close that you’ll find yourself hoping for is the last song, “Pure Imagination,” which encompasses all of the EP’s strengths, from the dynamic guitar work to the soaring vocals and powerful rhythm section. The mood on the album never wavers, always larger than life, toying with the balance between light and dark, which makes for a really well rounded listen.
LISTEN TO: “Future”
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