Via Audio

Say Something Say Something Say Something (2007)

John Gentile

Somewhere in the early part of the decade, new age-y synthesizers snuck back into the indie music scene. Bands began to use a soaring, light sonic backplate to carry their melodies. By hanging their instrumentation from floating rhythms, Via Audio makes a pretty album that at points is also pretty daring on Say Something Say Something Say Something.

For the most part, Via Audio uses softer sounds and melodies that float in and out on each track. Highlighting the amorphous sounds are electronic effects that enhance vocals. While this type of music can tend to get monotonous, Via Audio made the wise decision to have dual male female vocalists. Danny Molad, the male singer, drones in a detached voice, mirroring the ennui of the music. But, this is a good thing. While some music wraps itself around you shaking you bones, Via Audio goes for the Joy Division approach, leaving the music remote, making it hard to discern what exactly is happening -- which in turns makes it all that much more interesting.

Countering Molad is Jessica Martins, who uses her gorgeous voice to add meaning to the group's abstract lyrics. In the song "Hazmat," the group continually references ancient Egyptians for no apparent reason. But, just because the reason isn't apparent, doesn't mean there isn't one. Martins allows the listener to listen to her frosty vocals while drawing conclusions from the juxtapositions of words.

Interesting, near the end of the album is where the group really shines. The first few tracks blend together in the similarity, resembling Ben Folds sent through a pitch shifter. On the second half, however, Via Audio tries some more daring experiments. They blend nastier sounds with their prettier backgrounds, making the nasty sound not so nasty. The last track, which may be the best one on the album, "I Can't Focus" features Martins singing in a jazzy blues style with a melancholy violin sliding in the background.

Via Audio show real promise on Say Something Say Something Say Something. By blending lesser-known instruments with their laconic playing style, they create music that is both comforting but new and sad but interesting. If the continue with their experiments from the second half of this record onto their next, they're going to make one heck of a great album.