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I was a little surprised to see that only track they used of the EP was “Sing Song”, a fun little sing-along.

The album starts off with, my favorite track “Take Me Home”. Mainly the courageous Drew Hermiller whose vocals are probably an acquired taste shows off a style that he can sing at very high octaves that is reminiscent of Michael Jackson, though they said they took influences from Prince. The vocals are definitely refreshing from his regular Spencer Krug-style voice. That being said, I think Hermiller’s vocals are a big draw for me, I think it’s add into the carelessness and it’s a unique style that not many people can pull off.

I think a little bit of let down in this album, is that his voice is too clean and protected by their female band mates. The females sing wonderful but it makes it all that more unnecessary to have Drew be a mediocre singer rather then a unique, raspy and coarse vocalist.

The album is also less chaotic then their previous release. I’m not sure if this is the best thing but it does make them different from any other large-number group bands (see Ra Ra Riot or Los Campesinos!). Instead of making a beautiful mess, Team Genius has concentrated in tweaking everything, giving a cleaner and smoother sound. I think for me, I want to hear those flaws and more of that “indie” feel.

The album still has its bright moments. While it’s certainly flawed, it’s another example (in my mind) of band putting out a great EP and struggling to put out an equivalent album.

All the songs are overall solid, with great back up vocals by Emma Firth and the use of a wide variety of instruments. With 8 members, here’s a list of other things they use: harmonica, trumpet, accordion, mandolin, bells, cello and sax. They do try different things vocally and musically which is a welcome sight…anywhere.

I do also like this album more and more. It has a grower feel to it since there are subtle things you miss, like on “ABC” where there is random fast keyboard playing. A lot of the songs, aren’t as “out there” as the EP so I just was forced to take a different approach when it was all said and done. I don’t like having to adjust my expectations but there album is still good. The use of Firth’s vocals on “Take What You Can’t Make” gives the band a whole new dynamic. It’s clear she’s a strong vocalist and it sounds like an entirely different band.

To me the album is above average, Team Genius is capable of MUCH MUCH more but it’s just their first album and there is always room for improvement.
Rating: 3.75 out of 5

Take Me Home by Team Genius
ABC by Team Genius
Take What You Can’t Make by Team Genius

Tags: album