Album Review: Capeside - 'Atlantis'

Newcastle pop rockers Capeside possess an undeniably admirable trait: individuality. In the 21st century, where the music industry is so populated that every band who makes it big has at least two thousand more formed in its image, individuality is a lot to ask. Rather than using the opportunity of a full length to fall, as most pop rock bands seem to do, into generic production, Capeside retain their authentic sonic identity. That, coupled with the fact that 'Atlantis' as a whole is an effort that makes you want to sit in the sand and contemplate the world, promotes Capeside from a local group worthy of a go to a band that deserves recognition.

The gentle fade that introduces the record in 'They Make Plans, We Make History' characterises it - the whole album is relatively soft, smooth and sentimental. Singer Conaghan's vocals are almost reminiscent of early All Time Low, in a way that exploits an unharnessed, raw delivery to make the songs seem genuine. Undoubtedly, tear jerkers cement their place on 'Atlantis.' 'I Hope This Finds You Well' is a sad love song with slow chords, and 'The Rest of My Life' brings sparkling keys and plucked strings that culminate in an abrupt, yet assertive conclusion that's successful in proving that Capeside is indeed ready for its future. 'Can't Rain All the Time' builds on the capacity of 'Atlantis' to solicit emotions, but on a broader level, as the band don’t limit themselves and include violin in their instrumentals. There's an unnecessary repeat of the chorus at the end, but you get the gist - Capeside have crafted some eye-watering songs. On the other hand, they aren't afraid to pick up the pace on 'As You Were', as drums, not keys, become the tune's heartbeat.

Having said that, one aspect of the record that isn't quite perfect is that, perhaps as a consequence of its sustained mellowness, it starts to become a tad repetitious. 'Wake Up' blends into 'City Lights' in a seamless but purposeful way, but there are parts of this record where the songs seem to blur together without intention. Despite that, it's clear that some of these tracks were conceived not to be passively enjoyed, but to be performed. 'Leaving Through The Window' is an upbeat (albeit lyrically expected) pop punk contemplation of summer lasting forever, and 'Sunday's Best' is the record's mandatory lament on youth. Fortunately, the gang vocals give the overdone subjects life and listeners a desire to join in with them. 'Here's To…' is a glimmering, hopeful closer. The Australian accent bleeding into the vocals and the harmonies that accompany them give conviction to the song's echo: 'tonight we'll live without reason.' That's the sort of motivational lyric that you can sing in a crowd or in the shower, and that won't leave your head so long as the sun shines.

These songs have within them an imbued sense of integrity. Capeside aren't trying to do anything else - they aren't trying to be anything else. And while their sound does become repetitive, and songs, at some points, blur together, that point of sincerity endears listeners to finish Atlantis, and then spin it again.

1. They Make Plans, We Make History

2. As You Were

3. Wake Up

4. City Lights

5. I Hope This Finds You Well

6. The Rest of My Life

7. Leaving Through the Window

8. Sunday's Best

9. The Ocean

10. Can't Rain All The Time

11. Here's To...