New album is so good, it’s a Saosin

By Eric Jaen
Collegian Editor
October 18, 2006

Since their formation in 2003, California natives Saosin have quickly developed a cult-like fan base following the release of their debut EP, Translating The Name, on Death Do Us Part Records. However, in a shocking turn of events, beloved vocalist Anthony Green parted ways with the band in 2004, which resulted in a nationwide audition to fill the vacated position.

Following the public tryouts, and several guest vocals on demos, it was announced that young, up-and-coming vocalist Cove Reber would be their permanent front man. The following year saw the band on a full U.S. tour, including a stint on the Vans Warped Tour, as well as the release of an EP composed of new demos and acoustic tracks. After more than three years in existence, Saosin is set to please the masses yet again with post-hardcore jams via their full-length debut on Capitol Records, simply christened Saosin.

Even before the release of the album, fans were already left a bit queasy when it was announced that it would not be self-produced by guitarist Beau Burchell. Instead, production duties were assigned to prolific producer Howard Benson, known for his work with Hoobastank and My Chemical Romance.

Within the first few seconds of the opening track, “It’s Far Better To Learn,” long-time fans will notice a significant difference in sound, as Saosin’s signature heavy-chugging guitar tones were replaced by a muddier rock sound. While a bit disappointing, listeners will quickly turn their frowns upside down when their ear drums are blown out by the blistering tracks “Sleepers” and “It’s So Simple.”

Next up is the first single off of the album, “Voices,” which best exemplifies Saosin’s solid songwriting. The verses are tastefully laced with ambient guitar riffs mixed with the high-hat work of drummer Alex Rodriguez, making it the perfect soundtrack to any autumn day drive.

The chorus contains enough hooks to make Captain Hook himself shiver his timbers, as fans will find the lyrics, “We speak in different voices, when fighting with the ones we’ve loved / We speak in different voices, why can’t we say what we’re thinking of,” embossed in their brains for days.

“Finding Home” contains the lines, “I saw him fly, he’s never looked this way / I saw in his eyes, he’s never coming down,” which may make listeners question the possibility of an ode to a fallen friend, or perhaps a former bandmate.

Heavier songs like “Follow And Feel” and “Come Close” seem reminiscent of the band’s older material, but this time spliced with Saosin’s newer sound, bridging the gap between albums.

Additionally, in true Saosin fashion, the bone-crushing guitar riffage and overpowering gang vocals of “Collapse” will easily become a fan favorite as they lead into the climactic chorus of, “’Cause we are the only ones / We will get up / And we are aware / ’Cause we’ve been through it.”

Suprisingly, two of the more memorable tracks on Saosin are the prettier, mid-tempo tear-jerkers, the first being “I Never Wanted To,” later followed by “You’re Not Alone.” While many fans may be torn as to what to think of the latter, it nonetheless possesses a distinct aura that makes it stand out above the rest of the album.

One has to appreciate the simplicity of the song with its continuous, basic drumbeat and guitar riff that add to the ambience of the track. It serves as the perfect backdrop for Reber’s soothing vocals. Lyrically, the song provides listeners with a sense of hope during times of frustration and sorrow, as heard in the lines, “You’re not alone, there is more to this, I know / You can make it out, you will live to tell.”

Unfortunately, the album ends on a somewhat disappointing note, as “Bury Your Head,” which was already featured on the 2005 EP, found its way onto the final track list. While still a solid song, it would have been nice to sacrifice it for another new tune instead. Furthermore, it also blends into the final song, entitled “Some Sense Of Security,” which has an opening riff that is nearly identical to its predecessor.

While those who have been following Saosin for the past three years may notice a simpler song structure with their new effort, it is still a hands-down solid, well-written album. Musically, unlike other albums in the genre, Saosin is brilliant. Reber steps out of the shadow of Green and explores his vocal range, proving he is the perfect addition to an already talented lineup.

Be sure to catch Saosin on tour starting next month with Senses Fail and Bleeding Through.

jaene1@lasalle.edu