The Alternative Star.com

Album: The Sounds – Crossing the Rubicon

Released: June 2, 2009 on New Line

It’s been 3 years but Swedish New Wavers The Sounds are back with their latest full length effort Crossing the Rubicon. The record actually starts off very strong with “No One Sleeps When I’m Awake” and this is probably the record’s highlight. It starts out with a dreamy distorted 80’s inspired guitar riff that is sure to get you moving, until the verse begins with a grooving bass line and Maja Ivarsson’s squeaky clean vocals. It starts to go downhill from here though; the rest of the record is pretty mediocre. Except for perhaps “Beatbox” that has a super catchy chorus and a bit of funk.  Many of the songs just go on for much too long, like “Home is Where Your Heart Is,” which clocks in a little over seven minutes. Though, that song does have a cool sounding guitar solo. Too bad there isn’t more of a focus on the guitars. If you’re already into the Sounds, it shouldn’t disappoint but to someone who isn’t familiar with the band, this release probably won’t win you over much.    

Final Verdict?

3/5

Reviewed by: Deborah Remus