Rough Edge: Fairweather CD Reviews

FAIRWEATHER

"Lusitania" (Equal Vision; 2003)

Upon receiving Fairweather's latest effort, "Lusitania," I discovered (via the Web, of course) that the band was part of the ever-growing emo/screamo scene. I took pause and tried to reassure myself that some bands in the latest trendy style will actually impress me -- not all, but some. As you might guess, I listen to everything with an open mind. As a result I give every band a fair shot to prove what I've heard and/or read was wrong. And I'm glad I listened to "Lusitania" rather than let any pre-conceived notions I might have garnered from the press ruin a potentially good experience.

Fairweather, no doubt, are rooted in the emo/screamo style that is all the rage these days even if the band's origins are more punk in style than is evident here. However, based on my initial impressions of "Lusitania" Fairweather have more of an indie rock slant to their sound than a full-on emo/screamo style. And this is a good thing. Fairweather construct songs that are full of emotion and feature multi-dimensional throwbacks to great musical eras gone-by including classic punk, fundamental hardcore, pure rock, and mid-'80s alternative. It's a swirling mix, for sure, but it seems to be a natural for these guys.

Unfortunately, I am not familiar with Fairweather's previous two releases (one full-length and one EP). I am aware that Fairweather's sound has evolved in a fairly quick fashion and although I cannot make a direct comparison to past work and I can say by listening to "Lusitania" that Fairweather sound sincere enough and that they seem to be the sort of band that takes its musical output seriously. To my ears, "Lusitania" is closer to Cave In's "Antenna" rather than bands like Thrice and Poison The Well. All that means is that Fairweather have a better chance at attracting fans from across a wider variety of genres than most emo/screamo bands -- and that bodes well for their future.

"Lusitania" was produced by J. Robbins (Jets To Brazil, The Promise Ring).

Fairweather is Jay, Shane, Peter, and Ben.

For more information visit http://www.fairweatherva.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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