semi-normal
Reviewed by Shanelle Jovanovic
Published: 17 March 2010
lp: half open minds
Semi-Normal from the Indie/Rock scene have released their debut album titled, Half Open Minds, on Indie-a-GoGo Records. The band formed in 2002 and the release of their debut album has been a highlight of their career.
Half Open Minds successfully delivers the band's quest to produce musical guitar leading rock. Ben Downing, lead vocals and guitar, creates an interesting tone to the album. His thoughtful and crafty use of lyrics really does portray the band's professional approach to the Indie/Rock scene.
Track listing ‘Where Does the Sun Go’ is a great addition to the album, it starts off relatively slow and builds a great foundation with Downing’s lyrical talent.
‘I’ll be there’ is a heavier and grittier shift from the melodic tunes heard throughout the album. If Semi-Normal is going to have a hit, this is the one. Dave Smith on drums really explores how his instrument contributes to the overall sound of this song and wasn’t afraid to turn up the heat in line with the guitar strings.
Half Open Minds expresses what Semi-Normal is trying to achieve, an album with memorable songs accompanied with deep controlled vocals and guitar sounds. The album is promising but may not be the break that they need to hit the Indie/Rock music scene. However, the band does devote their time to expressing their interpretation of Indie/Rock music in a very unique way which truly reflects their passion for music.
Keep writing, drumming and strumming that guitar and Semi-Normal could be a valuable addition to the Indie/Rock music scene.
