Since The Lawrence Arms haven’t really done much in a while, I’ve been searching for a new band to fall in love with. Fortunately, after one listen to Elway‘s latest album, “Delusions,” I may have found one of my new favourite bands.
Combining elements of punk rock that made bands like The Lawrence Arms, Against Me! and Alkaline Trio so popular, Elway combine catchy riffs, singable songs and the right amount of that element that can only be described as “gruffness” in a way that makes it pretty impossible to forget the band once you’ve finished listening to “Delusions.” In fact, it may end up on repeat. Repeatedly.
Vocalist Tim Brown has a voice that manages to sound unique while evoking the singers of your favourite bands at the same time. At certain points of the album, it is not unusual to believe that Brown’s voice is identical to the voice of The Lawrence Arms and Sundowner vocalist Chris McCaughan, especially on a track like “Passing Days.” Then a track like “San Mateo” starts up, and Brown’s voice takes on a more gruff, strained sound that still manages to sound awesome, while on the track “Aphorisms,” Brown’s croon sounds closer to Alkaline Trio’s Matt Skiba,.
One of the great things about “Delusions” is that there isn’t the issue of monotony. Each track manages to sound unique, without being dull or repetitive. “The Tired Old Whore’s Bedside Book” doesn’t sound like “Aphorisms,” which doesn’t sound like a carbon copy of “Tapout Endorsement: The Musical.” The album has a nice mix of slower songs, and songs that are meant to be played loud and fast.
While “Delusions” focuses a lot on relationships and society, tracks like “Aphorisms” manage to sound emotional without being dull or maudlin. Instead, there is a nice balance of regret and anger, showing that you don’t just have to be bitter after a relationship ends. It’s emotional, but without being overly so.
So, if like me, you’ve been on the search for a new band to love, then check out Elway. Or even if you love plenty of bands, they’re definitely worth listening to.