Archive for the ‘The Sequence’ Category
The Sequence – In Lights EP
The Sequence is a humble four piece from California who, as far as I know, have remained unsigned throughout their young career. After the loss of their lead vocalist, there was scepticism on whether they could continue to please their growing fan base. Not being familiar with their older material, I can thankfully say, The Sequence has the ability to compete with most any high profile band. The new vocals fit like a glove, adding to the magical powerpop that The Sequence is known for. In Lights, while short in stature, includes three amazing tracks plus a cover of Rihanna’s Disturbia, which is always a fun listen.
The Sequence has the right idea when it comes to fun, hard hitting powerpop. The melodies are hip and sincere, and they are backed by talented artists. The vocals are well done, able to create falsettos and support by a general passion for the music. This is easily pointed out in All In, which seems to be their most vibrant track. All In has the perfect combination of grungy guitars, heavy drum backings and a much sweeter vocal melody to keep things honest. Combined, listeners are treated to a heartfelt song that mixes compassion with rock and gives off a really nostalgic performance. The Sequence also rocks a very established sound, whether that can be attributed to the producer or just great composition. For a young band they have a sound that’s full in nature and similar to great bands like My Favorite Highway.
The following two tracks take listeners on a more timeless journey as opposed to the catchy poprock that was put on display in All In. 1982 and Till I Die have a very alternative influence, opting for slower melodies, clean guitars and softer drum sets. The tracks are still cleverly pop, and follow the idea of momentum building verses into a dramatic chorus. 1982 is most notably victim to this roller coaster effect, and it’s a positive ride in my opinion. While many songs attempt this style of playing, and most get away with it, The Sequence did it with sincerity and candour that attracts me to the music. Till I Die is an acoustic ballad, and pretty epic at that; right off the bat there’s a violin solo that quickly sets the mood. It’s emotional and definitely a trip; it’s sad, hopeful, nostalgic and even a bit cliché, but it works. The theme of the song is a little weak, and I’m sure there are countless songs with similar stories, but perhaps that is what makes it so relatable and an easy listen.
Finally the cover of Disturbia is ridiculously fun. A nice change up from the last two tracks, which either put you in a sad mood or kept you in a sad mood. The cover was super well done, with great use of synths, crunchy guitars and just an overwhelming sense of sound. They really made it into their own and it’s actually a very catchy powerpop track in its own right.
Obviously The Sequence are ready to be signed, whether for their catchy pop or their sentimental rock. Either way, they have the right tools and the right idea. I would perhaps like to see a little bit more of their fun side when it comes to a full length, and if it ends up being more of the alternative rock, they could easily be a mainstream success but just not for me. This EP is worth checking out; it’s a sample of all sides to their story and a great listen.
Check out their Myspace for more info.
