Barcelone: Absolutes

When music is composed, from the first note it should grab the listener. Melodies complement the lyrics and vice versa. A songwriter/musician is presented with quite a challenge in order to construct the entire song. While sometimes the lyrics come first and other times the music, but however it comes, the package must ultimately work for the intended audience. The melody must lead and some songwriters let their emotions lead them in their individual styles.

Seattle-based Barcelona is such a band that has let their emotions lead them, most notably on their debut release, absolutes. Comprised of a group of longtime friends who cut an album on a lark and realized that perhaps they had lit upon something more. The friends felt that something clicked and thus Barcelona began. And the significance of the name? The band simply sensed people could relate to the name because it is easy to say and spell. The name also signifies a "cosmopolitan" feel as well as a reflection of Europe. Prior to the recording, lead singer Justin Fennell's previous solo endeavor, Safety Songs, had three tracks that were re-recorded for this debut album. Those cuts "Numb", "Response", and "Colors" help to anchor the eight other songs that are offered up by Fennell on absolutes. "Numb" is one of those songs that depicts how we have all felt at certain times in our lives--working hard, only to find that no one really cares and it leaves our souls numb.

"Response" is the best song on this album. It is upbeat, but the lyrics discuss anger, finding fault, and a feeling of confinement. "Colors" comes from a young person's perspective and how difficult it is to express the emotions of love at a young age. The songs are solid and arranged well.

What about the other eight songs on the album? From all the reviews that are to be found, it has been a positive experience for many. All the reviewers are raving about the music and the lyrics as well as the band. Yet, this review is going to have to go against the grain. Honestly, why is this band the rave? Repeated listens to the album leave one still unable to be caught up in the lyrics or melodies. The melodies are sad, and the words are that much more so.

Musically, the album struggles as most of the songs are played in keyboard chords. The addition of instruments such as the violin, cello, trumpet, drums and French horn helps to bulk up the sound but ultimately it doesn't challenge the listener to want to take in more of the album. Each of the musicians in Barcelona clearly has talent but the talent isn't given its best showcase this time around. It just doesn't push the envelope.

When listening to a song, the best tracks feature the vocals clearly without adding effects. Throughout absolutes, special effects are added to Fennell's vocals that almost compare to other pop singers that distort their voices in recordings. It leaves the listener asking if the vocalist can really sing.

Barcelona has a long way to go if they intend to foster a solid career as a recording artist. The melodies are similar in each of the cuts, which is disturbing. Realizing that most listeners are excited about this band, it is difficult to fairly judge the musical talents of each band member without upsetting their loyal fan base. However, do not let loyalty rule in the eyes of a true musician. The album is depressing and doesn't excite lyrically or musically. Hopefully, Barcelona's next outing will allow the group's talents to produce an album that captures the listener by uplifting the spirit as opposed to wallowing in existential angst.