Daniel French, the singer/songwriter who made waves with his debut solo record Viewfinder is back again, this time with a full band to not only back him on the record, but to play live as well. This self-titled debut pretty much picks up where his solo record left off, showing a bit of a new direction musically, but showcasing the same unique vocal talent of French and his knack for penning lyrics. Brother Scotty French plays on more than just two tracks this time around, once again giving the music an aggressive edge with his intense drumming. The mix of Danny's aggressive vocal style with Scotty's unmistakable drumming gives this record the intensity that trailed off somewhat on his debut. At first the songs don't stick to you as much as Viewfinder, but playing through it a few times the songs prove that French is more concerned with songs having lasting value. Ran Away to Sea's sound has kind of an angry and cynical feel to it, but reading through the lyrics there is a great deal of warmth and hope in what he is singing. An example of this is in "Yellow Lights," when he sings: "Once I was saved by the love of the only perfect stranger, pulls me from car crashes and danger...surrounds, your love surrounds." At the same time his lyrics deal with human imperfection and pain experienced in everyday life. The music shows a varying range of influences with a sort of lo-fi Built to Spill, Modest Mouse feel mixed with a harder and more emotional flavor. Original and passionate, the music of Ran Away to Sea is something definitely worth experiencing.
B+
Other coverage for this album
Decapolis 2000Reviewed by ConradThis singer is weird - so you'll either find this music interesting or really annoying. I found it interesting. He sings a little emo and a little like he's trying to scare you. Musically, this is acoustic emo. Having it mainly acoustic helps keep him separated from all the kagillion of emo rock bands out now. The vocal lines seep with melody - not catchy, but interesting. The lyrics are a focus…Decapolis 2000Reviewed by Tom BastianThis band is definitely one of the best bands in the Lancaster PA area right now. I guess my review might be kind of biased since I know some of the guys in the band, and have seen them play a few times, although they have not really been together as a band for that long. The backbone, or should I say originator of this band is Daniel French. Daniel has been playing his music in the Lancaster…Decapolis 2000Reviewed by Matt AThere is some really great music coming out of my little hometown, and Ran Away to Sea is an example of it. I really can't associate this band with another because they have such an original sound. That doesn't mean it's unaccessible...it's anything but. Elements of folk, rock, and emo are evident, and when they're combined make a very solid indie rock record. BSimilar sounding releases
2002ethan durelleCapgun Sessions Demo
1999All American Radio / SomersetInstruments/Landscapes
2005FieldingFielding
2001Breaking PangaeaCannon to A Whisper
1997Luxurythe latest & the greatest
1997Jawbone HillGrind
