Album Review: The Assembly Line – Graves Like Oceans
Rating: 8.1/10
The Assembly Line is hardly assembled. Since the ‘band’ began after Thorfin Nguyen’s previous efforts, he has been the only consistent face to associate with the name, as well as the man to talk to when trying to find anything out about the alt-rock sound they produce.
While it might appear to be an album just from Nguyen, Graves Like Oceans doesn’t sound like an individual’s efforts due to strong resemblances to other well-established artists and the encompassing and airy feel their bandmates provide. For Thor and his music, the recipe for success takes heart from his favorite groups – Death Cab for Cutie and Jimmy Eat World – although the real influences stretch into the range of artists such as Goo Goo Dolls and Mae. Each group hangs on the lyrics of the lead vocalist, yet they all benefit from elaborate instrumental backdrops.
Pacing the album’s alternative and rock blend are “Valor Among Thieves”, “twenty-thousand Leagues” and “Pretend”. The voice behind the music curses in sweet revelries and an emaciated language similar to the music leaders of the alternative world. In “Pretend” a meticulous acoustic accompanies Nguyen’s lyrics of “I pretend all I want, but I can’t get you out of my mind” as a tapping high hat clicks away. Songs like this create a cohesion in the album that makes it easy to listen to all of the way through.
Overall Graves Like Oceans coasts smoothly from start to finish with many favorites available for a playlist to adore. Even better, this album lasts 14 tracks, which don’t get old or confused with another song.
The Assembly Line is currently being featured in September’s Alternative Press mag as a Top Unsigned Band of the Month. For more on the group, head to their MySpace or head to iTunes to check out this album.
MP3: The Assembly Line – Pretend (buy)
Popularity: 34% [?]
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As a friend of Thor and ex-bassist from one of his “previous efforts”, I can say 100% that the sound that he produces has grown by leaps and bounds over the past few years. I am very proud to call Thor one of my friends and I would suggest The Assembly Line to anyone who enjoys listening to GOOD music!