What do you get when you mix one part Regina Spektor, one part Feist, and a splash of St. Vincent? You get the sweet joyful sound of Reviving Cecilia. I have had the opportunity on several occasions to see this lovely group, and am quite impressed with the growth they have shown in the last couple months. I had a chance to check out their recently released EP Thin Air.
The whole EP is nothing short of brilliant with carefully composed layers complimented by the dual vocals of Connie Hong and Ali Goosens. On the opening track, “Come Elijah”, we hear Goosens and Hong give us a sample of the angelic harmonies that carries the song from beginning to end, with sudden transition shifts the vocals stand out the most. It is as if you can feel the passion behind their voices as you listen to this track.
On “Death of A Man”, the track starts off with an infectious drum roll that sets the tone for the rest of the song. It is when the chromatic scales of the xylophone kick in that the song truly hits its pinnacle, with a perfectly orchestrated percussion section this song is truly something I could hear getting major airplay on the radio.
Other notable tracks are “Houses”, which is probably the most upbeat song on the EP. It is also the catchiest of the songs, as the repeating chorus of I love you makes you want to sing in unison along to the song.
The song “September” conjures up comparisons to that of Badly Drawn Boy, and the mainstream pop sound that goes along with it. The melodies on this blend together without a hitch and create a unique sound that makes you feel like you are starring at the stars and making a wish that will come true.
My favorite track “ 2 Kinds” starts off with a haunting piano riff, which then explodes into a song that truly demonstrates the perfectly pitched harmonies and orchestrated backing of guitar and percussion that will only carry Reviving Cecilia to the top. Truly a hidden gem in the Mile High City, it won’t be long until they become a household name amongst the Denver music scene. The CD was mixed and mastered by the talented crew over at House In Motion Recording Studio .
-Castro
Be sure to catch Reviving Cecilia along with Eldren and Talkdemonic this Saturday February 18th at Moe's BBQ, those in attendance will receive a copy of the EP.