‘Blue Sky Noise’ first album with Atlantic

By Sergio Lopez, Contributing writer

Photo from wallpaperweb.org

Before anything can be said about Circa Survive’s newest album “Blue Sky Noise,” you have to understand that this is their first album on their new major label, Atlantic. With that being said, the stereotypical “sell-out” accusation and the refusal to follow the band to the big label jump is obviously evident. While this is bittersweet, it is exactly what this band needs to get some more recognition.

It’s a Circa Survive album, so of course the musicianship, creativity and lyrics are outstanding. I have come to expect nothing less from this band since the 2007 release of “On Letting Go.” The replay value of this album is also very good, and with the switch to Atlantic, the production value is outstanding.

“Glass Arrows” is a perfect example of what this band needed to become to appeal to the masses. It has every facet of a good rock song with all of Circa Survive’s creativity and indie feel still in it. This song literally rocks, though diehard pre-Atlantic fans may have trouble adjusting.

“I Felt Free,” the fourth song on “Blue Sky Noise,” is almost a ballad dedicated to the band’s previous albums. It starts slow and grows gradually with that feel we expected to hear. This song came extremely close to a top 40 spot. The piano and vocal harmonies are fantastic.

With all of this being said, I feel that “Get Out,” the second song, is a glimpse of what this band is trying to become. It encompasses their unique sound but still delivers the way a traditional rock song should.

“Imaginary Enemy” is the song all you fans of a faster-paced style are looking for in this band. The bass is crunchy, the guitar is really smooth and the song has a bit of bounce to it. It is something you could bob your head to, as lame as that may sound.

Overall, I think “Blue Sky Noise” is great. If you are a diehard fan, give this a listen more than once before you just cast it out. It is not “old Circa Survive,” but it is still incredibly artistic and intricate.

I recommend picking this up if you have any interest in rock music at all. There is a little something for everyone, and I think this is exactly what the band wanted to present with this album.