Album Review: I Am Alaska - So They Say EP

Sitting somewhere between Circa Survive and Glassjaw, I Am Alaska’s self-released 'So They Say' straddles a fine line between pretentiousness and grandeur. Admittedly the vocal style may take some getting used to, but in between there are enough flashes of talent to make this a solid EP. 'Eat Your Melancholy' is a highlight; the guest vocals of Shawn van Brocklin of Greene Reveal definitely add a Circa Survive-y feel to the song, but the lyrics are strong and the musicianship is excellent.

A band that shows plenty of ambition always draws my praise and I Am Alaska are no different. There is such wide scope on display here that I can’t help thinking that a full-length would be suitably epic.

'Sheep in Wolves Clothing' seems slightly atypical of the rest of the album, but it stands out because of this in a positive light. In six songs, I Am Alaska prove that they are capable of showcasing different musical styles.

Overall solid lyrics, good musicianship, interesting song structures and plenty of ambition makes this an EP worth searching out. Fans of Coheed, Circa Survive and Glassjaw should find plenty to keep them interested.

3/5

'So They Say' EP by I Am Alaska is available now through Bandcamp.



I Am Alaska on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and Bandcamp.

Nick Robbins