ICARUS THE OWL
Love Always, Leviathan
[Persistent Heart Media]
Verdict: 8/10
RIYL: pmtoday, Tides of Man, Lovehatehero

ICARUS THE OWL is a new band that employs an interesting blend of progressive rock intricacy and pop-punk melodicism. Each of the twelve songs on Love Always, Leviathan showcases how the band wants to push as much fun and frenzy into a three-and-a-half-minute song. The best song on the album illustrates that point; “Nuclear Towns” is incredibly addictive and yet, it’s a bit awkward. The song features a few time signature changes that come across slightly “off” for lack of a better word, and one of the harmonies seems a bit out of place upon the first listen; however, the flair and freaking fun that the band exudes shines through, pushing the track past those listening obstacles. The band carries with it all of the “hummability” of punk with the musical acumen of progressive rock, qualities that usually don’t run together. In fact, it’s that combination that is what makes the album so endearing: it serves as a great summer album for those who feel they have “outgrown” pop-punk. Take “Tear Down the Mountain” or “Peppertree” as examples: there is an inherent harmony between the melodic and progressive elements of the band’s sound that carries each tune above the generic punk standard. Where the band really shines is with “Chemicals and Flesh”, which finds the band treading in COHEED AND CAMBRIA’s territory with a heavier edge and longer track duration. It’s a testament to the band that they can keep the listener’s attention with short and long tracks. The bottom line here is that ICARUS THE OWL’s newest release comes with an asterisk: these Oregon gentlemen have certainly released a very solid album, but the promise of what the future holds is even more impressive. The band clearly has a bright future ahead, and this album is a clear indicator of the potential ICARUS THE OWL possesses. – by Nicholas Senior

>> Recommended Listening: “Nuclear Towns” and “Peppertree”
>> Release Date: June 21st, 2012
>> Conclusion: ICARUS THE OWL has crafted the perfect summer album for those that have “outgrown” the simplicity of pop-punk yet miss the fun of the genre.