Over the past couple of years I kept hearing the name Rainer Maria. After recently being impressed with their live show I decided to pick up their latest full length "A Better Version of Me". Unfortunately the album does not live up to the standard I set for them after seeing them live.
While lead singer/bassist Caithlin De Marrais has a strong and able voice, musically this disc just doesn't hold my attention. The absolute worst moment on this album occurs when guitarist Kyle Fischer attempts to "sing" on the song "The Contents of Lincoln's Pockets." However "A Better Version of Me" does have some redeeming moments. Tracks such as "Thought I Was" and "Hell and High Water" showcase the band at its best on this release.
Long time fans may find this to be Rainer Maria's finest work to date. With little experience listening to this band, I can't really say. If you've never heard this trio from New York I recommend catching their live show, you may even be treated to a cover of a U2 or Coldplay song, like I was.
D
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 2001Reviewed by Tom BastianRainer Maria delivers their best album to date. Caithlin's (bass and female lead vocals) vocals are at an all-time best with this release and the music is the most creative the band has produced. With each release we seem to hear less of Kyle (the guitarist and male vocalist for the band), which I kind of see as a bad thing. I liked when the band used to mix it up more going from male to female…Similar sounding releases
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