The Swellers
Running Out of Places to Go
Snowbird Songs (2012)
Sounds Like: The same old catchy Swellers
Score: 8/10
One of the most consistently good bands in the land has done it again. Recently having parted ways with Fueled By Ramen Records, The Swellers are releasing this new EP Running Out of Places to Go on their own label, Snowbird Songs. Though short, it has everything Swellers fans had been patiently waiting for.
Subdued vocals introduce the album at the outset of “Hands,” (which you can see frontman Nick Diener play for our Stripped Down Sessions here). The song slowly shapes itself into power pop, culminating in a brief guitar solo and repeating hooks. “Let Me In” and “Bad for Me” are good tracks, but act mostly to fill the time before “Making Waves,” which is the best song on the EP. It blends a trademark harmonious chorus with frantic energy and the result is a short, attention-grabbing hit. The pace on “Making Waves” is only complemented by the mellow, melodic vibe of the title track finale. An oddly heavy, moody song, it has the kind of soaring vocals fans have become accustomed to, as well as more than a few sing-along parts.
Unfortunately, the lack of versatility on Running Out of Places to Go keeps me from truly loving it. The Swellers aren’t notorious for switching up styles, but on a five-song EP, the lack of variety becomes a lot more noticeable. Even so, this EP is incredibly catchy, and should be a part of any Swellers fan’s record collection.
Running Out of Places to Go will be released Oct. 16 and you can pre-order it now from The Swellers’ bandcamp.
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