Suits and Ladders
Independent
Sincerely Calvin has come a long way from their modest beginnings-it’s hard to believe that in their early days, their rehearsal space was limited to the best that UIUC dorms had to offer. After becoming the house band for a bar on campus every Monday, Sincerely Calvin developed a group of enthusiastic and devoted followers. Sincerely Calvin’s melodic pop-rock stylings make it pretty easy for listeners to catch on. The boys from Sincerely Calvin will be releasing their first full length album on Green Street Records. Now, the main question you’re probably asking is: will this be worth my time/money/booze budget?
This album answers your question rather effortlessly. Suits and Ladders came to this world through recording sessions at their own Nerpi Studios in Champaign, a good, thorough mixing in Chicago by a friend and mastered mainly by Alan Douches in New Jersey. His touch is evident-he has worked with artists like Jets to Brazil, Ben Folds, Fleetwood Mac and Yes. His ability to attract diverse bands made him a fitting choice as producer. Sincerely Calvin’s disc manages to parallel this: tinges of emo-scented, post-rock/experimental sound are mixed in with bouncy piano melodies and punky pop-rock.
This post-rock influence shines through on “Ghosts.” The taut and melodic “Movement” springs along to a darkly-hinted piano melody and softly plucked guitar, while lead singer Jack McCabe sings, “I’m sorry I woke you/I know I spoke too soon.” “Capo Nine” is a pleasant, rushing-soft end to a good album. A consistent thread of punk entwines itself throughout the album, adding twists and turns to where there might not be any.
All considered, Sincerely Calvin has made a very good first album, and they should be proud of themselves. So, bust out that wallet of yours: your ears will thank you. Not only is five bucks a deal, but you don’t have to worry about your nosy RA bustin’ up the scene.
