Having an album produced by Greg Haver of Manic Street Preachers and Super Furry Animals fame is in itself a feat for an unsigned Irish band. The five-member Storyfold released their debut album Rocket Science in May with acclaimed music blogger 2UIBestow heralding it as one of the most anticipated albums of this year.
The juvenility of the band is apparent throughout the album as the American pop-rock sound is relatively constant and couples with the sweet vocals of the unsullied-sounding Lindsey Hogan. Hogan and fellow vocalist Paddy McKenna were seemingly born to sing together as their respective stylings merge perfectly together over backing music. This is most evident in the power pop-esque The Battle; an emotional song which is riddled with meaningful lyrics and the two singers’ sweet, expressive strains.
Reluctance to use the word “average” when reviewing the album is a good sign for this Dublin fivesome. It would be unfair to use such a nondescript phrase when the band have got clear potential and blatant talent. However, there is something missing from this otherwise compelling album. It is untarnished and innocent, which is appealing from bands such as The XX, however in this case in renders the listener uninspired and generally unmoved. It is unfortunate to say, but high acclaim cannot be given to a band that is lacking an edge. While they may not be a regular feature on your iPod, the album is worth a listen as better things are yet to come for Storyfold.
5/10
