Red Int / Red Ink
2008
Low Vs Diamond
About This Album
If there's any truth to the notion that a band's sound is tied to its location, then Low vs Diamond could best be described as having an East Coast/U.K. vibe despite their West Coast roots -- on their debut album, the group touches on the bleak detachment of England's Editors, the pensive, ethereal soundscapes of Home Video, and the driving rhythms of the Bravery, both of New York. However, Low vs Diamond distinguish themselves from their contemporaries by adding their own flourishes -- a warm undercurrent infuses all of their songs, as does an airy, almost delicate atmosphere. The group's approach dabbles in both indie rock and post-punk revivalism without adhering completely to either; whether this was a calculated move or a happy coincidence is unknown, but in the end it doesn't matter. It's a combination that works, allowing them to find their own sound without deviating too much from mainstream tastes. Lucas Field's voice, with its pleasant warble, lends a light touch, but not a weak one. On "Killer B," the vocalist lands somewhere between Chris Martin and a young, swaggering Bono, with the rest of the band following suit -- guitarist Anthony Polcino, drummer Howie Diamond, and bassist Jon Pancoast combine a steady marching rhythm with understated guitar work that is reminiscent of tracks from U2's War.
Track List (try tracks 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 and 8)

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