Self Against City – Telling Secrets To Strangers

Artist: Self Against City
Album: Telling Secrets To Strangers
Label: Rushmore Records/Drive-Thru Records
Purchase: Smart Punk
Release Date: January 9, 2007

Overall: 9.0
Music: 9.2
Lyrics: 8.7
Production: 9.0

The record begins with the line “Lets take this all the way.” Two years after their release of their EP, Self Against City are back again and most definitely taking it all the way. Since the EP, Jonathan’s vocals have gotten stronger, there is more variation and the band has a much tighter sound. The result is the disgustingly catchy “Telling Secrets To Strangers.”

Nearly every song on the album is infectious but upon listening “Tequila Moonlight” stands out among the rest with it’s contrasting upbeat music paired with serious, solemn lyrics. Many of the songs follow a similar formula and it works perfectly for the band. Other songs like “Becoming A Monster” follow a more positive lyrical approach but still contain that classic upbeat guitar that has become somewhat of a trademark for the band. The song is a stark comparison to a lot of the music coming out today, as it is surprisingly uplifting and optimistic. During the second half of the record the songs slow down just slightly and they began to take a more emotional turn. The final three songs “Smooth Silver”, “Yours Isn’t The First” and “Back To Our Innocence” are some of the most poignant and intense on the entire record. The final parts of the record really show how versatile the band can be. The lyrics grow more complex and the vocals are much more varied than the beginning. Throughout the record there is a natural progression from the more poppy beginning to this slower, thoughtful ending.

This is a catchy, catchy album that one cannot help but like. It’s extremely smart, melodic pop-rock music that the music scene has been void of lately. The very first time I listened to this record I was startled when it ended and quickly fumbled for the repeat button.

1. Becoming A Monster
2. Stroke Of Luck
3. Ready And Willing
4. Even The Strong Won’t Survive
5. Disappearing Act
6. Tequila Moonlight
7. Talking To The Mirror
8. You Got It
9. Smooth Silver
10. Yours Isn’t The First
11. Back To Our Innocence