Driven Far Off

The latest on the indie, alternative, and rock music scene including news, music, contest, interviews, and more. Best described as your favorite place to find new bands.

We Shot the Moon – The Polar Bear & Cougar

By 4 Comments

We Shot the Moon

Artist: We Shot the Moon
Album: The Polar Bear & Cougar
Label: Self Released
Purchase: N/A
Release Date: N/A

Overall: 8.5
Music: 9.0
Lyrics: 8.5
Production: 8.0

Infectious pop rock is the best way to describe We Shot the Moon. As the superb combination of Jonathon Jones (Ex Waking Ashland) Joe Greenetz and Dan Koch from Sherwood; they have proven to create some of the catchiest, most compelling songs of the year. “The Waters Edge” alone is enough audio candy to hook anyone in. The Polar Bear & Cougar is nothing short of an awesome introduction for this young band. We should all look forward to more music from these guys in the New Year.

Standout Track
The Waters Edge

Track Listing
1. Sway Your Head
2. Julie
3. The Waters Edge
4. Key Change (LTFP)
5. Welcome Home

The Color Fred – Bend to Break

By 1 Comment

Bend to Break

Artist: The Color Fred
Album: Bend to Break
Label: Equal Vision
Purchase: Smart Punk
Release Date: October 30th, 2007

Overall: 7.0
Music: 8.5
Lyrics: 7.5
Production: 7.5

When Fred Mascherino announced that he’d left Taking Back Sunday to pursue his solo career, many were left devastated; week’s later fans were given the chance to find solace in Mascherino’s debut effort. With The Color Fred it’s Mascherino who shows his true colors, not to mention his knack for creating pure pop-rock bliss. The single “If I Surrender” has already made a big splash on the Internet, with its subsequent video.

The record becomes slightly bogged down in the middle; as I found favor in the more up tempo tracks. All around, Bend to Break is a well written album, that’s sure to please. Fred truly brought a great dynamic to Taking Back Sunday, and he will be missed. Nevertheless he’s paved the way for a great solo career, the future looks bright for The Color Fred.

Standout Track
Minnesota

Track Listing
1. Get Out
2. If I Surrender
3. Hate to See You Go
4. It Isn’t Me
5. Complaintor
6. The Tragedy
7. I Didn’t See
8. Empty House
9. Minnesota
10. I’ll Never Know
11. Don’t Pretend

Desoto Jones – Aurora

By 1 Comment

Aurora

Artist: Desoto Jones
Album: Aurora
Label: Deep Elm
Purchase: Inter Punk
Release Date: November 27th, ’07

Overall: 8.0
Music: 8.5
Lyrics: 7.5
Production: 8.0

If there is such a thing as an independent “modern rock” record, then this is it! Desoto Jones brings forth solid musicianship, heartfelt lyrics, and a true passion for music that shines through on their sophomore effort, Aurora. Without hesitation the record kicks into high gear, its flow is seamless and the guitar-work is something to be celebrated. Aurora simply does not let up, from its blazing opener to the subtle acoustic-laced ballad “Nonfiction” on through the fitting closer, “Waiting.” I can see this album spanning a vast array of fans, as there really is something for everyone. I couldn’t let this release fly below the radar, and neither should you. Deep Elm Records has begun limiting their releases to 1,000 copies, so be sure to pick up Aurora!

Standout Track
Don’t Fail Me

Track Listing
1. Speed Bump
2. Don’t Fail Me
3. Giant Magnets
4. Cap Gun
5. Nonfiction
6. Out of the Blue
7. Sweet Sun
8. Working Class Daydream
9. Courtesy Call
10. Waiting

Attica! Attica! – Dead Skin / Dried Blood

By Leave a Comment

Dead Skin Dried Blood

Artist: Attica! Attica!
Album: Dead Skin / Dried Blood
Label: Red Leader
Purchase: Interpunk
Release Date: September 11, ’07

Overall: 8.0
Music: 8.5
Lyrics: 8.0
Production: 7.0

Attica! Attica! is the true blue, lo-fi, no frills indie rock masterwork of one Aaron Scott. On this, his debut solo effort, Scott showcases his sharp tongue and even sharper musicianship. Dead Skin / Dried Blood is simply a dozen well crafted gems; they are subtle yet at the same time intense. This multi-instrumentalist draws from a vast array of influences most predominantly, folk rock. With fingers on the strings and the pen to paper, it’s clear that Scott intended this record to be a journey for the listener. Reflective of his own travels, the album contains views on today’s society as well as political overtones. However, as his rye lyrics seep in, his messages don’t come off as overtly “preachy.”

It is truly rare breed of artist who can thoroughly captivate with only an acoustic guitar; Aaron Scott is an honest musician in every sense of the term.

Standout Track
Frostbite

Track Listing
1. Motion Sickness
2. The Play’s the Thing
3. Frostbite
4. Tires and Mint
5. Way Down in Gitmo
6. Intermission
7. A Dirge for the Underground
8. The Kid’s War
9. The Party Party
10. Blackout
11. We’ll Always Be Home
12. Flamethrower