331: New A Criminal Risk single displays potential and promise for the future.
It’s not often that we review single songs here at Unsung Melody, but I felt that in this case, an exception could be made. A Criminal Risk reached out to us to help get their name and music out there. This is something that I am more than happy to assist with, seeing as how the song is actually quite good.
Let’s get the negative aspects out of the way first. The weakest parts of the song come as the verses. The vocals here greatly contrast the vocals in the chorus, and even the bridge, to an extent. To me, they come across as lazy and uninspired. It doesn’t feel like much emotion was put forth in them.
Though when we get to the chorus, it’s a different story. Not quite full-on screaming, the raspy vocals found here are full of emotion and energy. If you’re looking for a comparison, they sound similar to those found in the hard rock/indie rock band LaGrecia. The bridge vocals are not the raspy kind found in the chorus’, but they are far more powerful than the verse vocals.
I’m usually horrible at drawing comparisons to give people an idea of what new bands sound like. Provided you’ve actually heard of LaGrecia, (which is probably none of you) A Criminal Risk sounds like them, but with more of a faster, punk rock edge. I would even go as far as to say they resemble Rise Against, though the vocals are nowhere near as raspy or raw as that. The music is delightful. Every instrument is displayed wonderfully, and each one has its moment to shine. We’re even treated to a fun guitar solo before the final chorus.
While this is not the bands first release, this definitely shows promise for what’s to come. I, for one, am curious as to how a full-length would sound. I have no doubts that it would be fantastic. They just need to work on getting the vocals to 100% in all areas.
I recommend you check this new single out if you are a fan of fun punk rock, or a fan of either of the bands I mentioned above. Support DIY, underground bands!
Unsung Melody Score: 7 out of 10
Pick up the new single on iTunes here and be sure to follow the band with the links found below: