Album Review: Sparks The Rescue - Eyes To The Sun

After a well received release in the US, and a successful support slot along the All-American Rejects in the UK and Europe. Sparks The Rescue's debut full-length, 'Eyes To The Sun' gets it UK release next week through Hassle Records.

From the start 'My Heart Radio' kick starts the record, with full force. It's upbeat tempo and bold sound, with added “ohhs” and “woahs”, makes the track almost irresistible. Tracks like 'Pine Tree State' and 'Autumn' follow a similar structure, with catchy hooks and an overall strong pop-rock sound.

While 'Hello Mexico' is infectious and has an unbelievably catchy melody, that is neatly complimented by a laid back guitar. It is the ideal song to reminisce about past summers, both lyrically and musically.

Elsewhere 'Skeleton' and 'I Swear That She's The One' continue the upbeat, pop-rock structure, that the 5 piece have perfected so well. The former, along with 'Shipwreck', showcases the bands more rock side, that shows variation and proves to be favourable.

Thankfully they avoid including a ballad or soft song, like so many bands like them. Even though 'The Gravity' teases this at first, it leads to a steady-paced, positive number; similar to that of Valencia's last release.

Despite its constant positive energy, there are one or two numbers that are probably worth skipping, as tracks like 'Chemistry Set' sound stale and to an extent, repetitive.

Nevertheless Sparks The Rescue have produced an impressive debut. They have shown they are able to hold the listener's attention, through a combination of bold, catchy songs, that plain and simply make you feel good. It may not be an all-round perfect package, but it is definitely a stepping stone towards bigger and better things.

3.5/5

'Eyes To The Sun' by Sparks The Rescue is released next Monday (September 28th) in the UK on Hassle Records and is available now in the US on Fearless Records.

Sparks The Rescue on MySpace

Sean Reid