If you haven’t heard of The Fray, then I suggest you find them as soon as possible. Formed in 2002, the Denver foursome released their first major label album, “How to Save a Life,” on Epic Records Sept. 13, 2005.
Their sound can best be described as piano-driven emo with a pop twist in the same vein of bands like Copeland, Eisley and Straylight-Run, with just a dash of Coldplay.
“How to Save a Life” is one of the best albums I’ve heard all year and is easily the best album I’ve heard from a new band. You will have the CD’s tunes stuck in your head for days after you listen to them.
The band starts off with a great song, “She Is,” which allows pianist and vocalist Isaac Slade to draw you in with his amazing vocals and catchy piano. The mix of this song is right on, blending together to create a signature sound for Fray. The very next track on the CD, “Over My Head (Cable Car),” builds on a few of the things in “She Is.” The vocals are still amazing and the lyrics still hold hauntingly in the back of my mind in a good Death Cab for Cutie way, not a bad “Macarena” way.
“Look After You” is my favorite song from the album. It’s mellow, and Slade’s haunting crooning and piano playing give me chills every time I hear the song.
The last song, “Trust Me,” takes the album to a close on a good note. It eases out slowly and continues the album’s formula of powerful vocals and deep instrumentals.
“How to Save a Life” is an amazing debut CD, not perfect but darn close, in my opinion. The lyrics are spot-on for this emo kid and the music backs it up perfectly. The only reason I am going to give it less than five ponies is because I realize this music isn’t for everyone.