102 November 2013 www.bahrainthismonth.com downtimemusic Emphatic Another Life RATING: WHAT’S THE STORY? Omaha-based hard rockers Emphatic have released their sophomore album, Another Life. The record is their first to feature new frontman Toryn Green, previously the singer of multi-platinum rock band Fuel and the touring vocalist for Finnish cello-rock band Apocalyptica. Nestling amongst the likes of Creed, the US rock band steps forward to light up ears and thoughts. This band has turned over a new leaf and has matured in sound. It is a breath of fresh air in a scene that is filled with money hungry bands. WORTH A LISTEN? The release does not exactly set down new markers. It is one which leaves infectious and richly rewarding musical narratives. Emphatic has never released a bad song. They definitely chose the right person for the job, because Green’s voice suits the sound this band has created. If you’ve heard them before, you will want to give this album a shot. Followers will still find plenty to enthuse about from the title track to the album closer. If you’re a fan of modern rock in general, you will want to pick it up anyway. Unforgettable lyrics, irreplaceable instrumental skills and outstanding vocal ability make this an album really worth a listen. Verdict: The album provides an appealing dose of rock intensity and passion. TOP TRACKS: Remember Me, Lights and Some Things Never Die. Shane Filan You & Me Shane Filan of Westlife is firmly putting his boy band past behind him to be his own person. You & Me marks the Irish singersongwriter's first solo LP. He describes the album as a positive collection of songs. Shane co-wrote a handful of Westlife songs, but his solo album sees him emerge as a pop writer to be reckoned with. Everything to Me sets off the celbratory feel and flavour wto be expected from the entire album. James Blunt Moon Landing His fourth album is an attempt to recapture the spontaneity of his first. There are clichéd moments. It isn’t easy to say this in a world that perhaps hates Blunt, but he’s all right. The songs aren’t bad; they aren’t fun either. M.I.A Matangi It was way back in January 2012 when Bad Girls, the first single from M.I.A’s fourth album came out. After nearly a year, the Sri Lankan artist is finally finished with her latest set of hyper catchy electro-rap jams. The mood is a bit more playful. ALBUM OF THE MONTH Battle against Adversity This is month of comebacks in the world of music. While some have done better than they ever have, others give us nothing more than the initial hype.
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