By Surprise, Mountain Smashers
I have been obsessing over this album, quoting it and singing it and hearing it in my sleep. This is By Surprise's first full length and damn, these bearded men with glasses can fucking rock. Seriously, front to back it rules. I'll admit I enjoy the [sometimes] goofy vocals, but the music and instrumentation could stand alone as a rockin' indie record. This band is fond of harmonious chants and fun backups and I can't get enough. The lyrics are creative, superb and personal. Mountain Smashers has a great flow from fast upbeat tunes to mellow jams and musical goodness providing natural body highs throughout.
For most of the record, both guitarists are playing different riffs/leads and I envy that so much. It's hard enough writing one lead, let alone two varying guitar parts for almost every song, for most of the song. Kudos to you duders.
Standout Tracks: Realometer; Mostly Harmless; Last Chance to See; Fountain Splashers; So Long and Thanks For All the Shark Jaws; Hanging Out With Wendy In Sulikland; Direct Loans. PRETTY MUCH THE ENTIRE FUCKING ALBUM.
These guys definitely have talent but maybe more importantly, obvious passion. This is a kickass record.
So get toasty and comfy, put on some nice headphones, and lay down in the dark and enjoy Mountain Smashers by Jersey's own, By Surprise.
