Seraiah
Seraiah
Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt
While most bands are trying to beat the "sophomore jinx" with their second album, Seraiah had a "freshman jinx" to overcome. The band's Carnival World debut left a lot to be desired in a lot of people's minds, and the band wanted to show that they were made of better material than that album displayed. The most memorable moment from the debut was "Let Him Take Control," which was re-produced by Steve Griffith. This time the band has elected Steve to take complete control on this album, and they're better for it. This self-titled release is a whole head and shoulders above its predecessor. The downfall of this release, though, is that it fails to adequately take you to the edge and shove you over. Many of the formulas, styles and riffs used show glimpses of success, but don't have the utzpah to take the song over the top. Angelica has had similar patterns: parts of the songs are great, but it's not consistent all the way through. A couple songs here, though, break this curse and stand up and show forth excellence: "New Kind of Voodoo" and "Love Has No Bounds." These two tunes jump right out at ya upon first listen, while tunes like "No More Lies" (the first single) and "Angry Young Boy" grow on ya pretty quick after numerous listens. "Voodoo..." is the album's strongest point, with a real tight and sassy groove and a haunting vocal melody. "Love Has No Bounds" shines, because of its great chorus vocal lines, which are layered into that "perfect hook" that plays on in your mind. "When it Rains" showcases vocalist Brad Beckey's quality voice box, as well as Quinton Gibson's fine picking abilities. Both "Fever" and "Angry Young Boy" courageously tread new waters for the band. Although not sounding completely natural for Beckey, he pulls off a decent Rap vibe in "Fever." Overall, I'd says Seraiah has missed the bullseye, but they've come close and shown the world that their live shows aren't a fluke.