Tangents is a far step away from the members’ current gigs, and it’s not what you would expect from musicians that are known for to play prog rock, metalcore and heavy metal. The band’s debut full-length One Little Light Year, was pieced together through e-mail without the two musicians ever getting together in one room. It’s an ambient, melodic, organic and layered display of musicianship.
Beginning with “Arrow in the Heart,” right away, you get the sense of the atmosphere that Kerswell and Witham are trying to create. The music on One Little Light Year ooze with sonic Pink Floydian and Beatle-esque melodies. However, most of the 12 tracks are radio-friendy, familiar sounding pieces of pop rock. The songs are well-crafted and Witham has a decent voice for these types of songs. He really shines on “When Will It End,” Fall Asleep Again” and “Hyde.”
The album as a whole is somewhat enjoyable, but not memorable enough. There are too many layers that don’t allow you to latch onto the melody and leaves you with a feeling of indifference, even long after listening to it.
If you like the aforementioned bands and you’re looking for something different than full-on metal, Tangents might pleasantly surprise you with their melodic brand of pop rock.
(released October 26, 2010 on Restricted Release Records)
