Robbers On High Street - Tree City

Ok, let’s get this out of the way in the first paragraph; these guys sound like Spoon. There, it’s out in the open. It’s the first thing that will pop into your head when you hear the disc, and the only obstacle in your way to seeing exactly how amazing a full length debut this is. Transcending all comparisons in sound and rising above any pressure that might come from being a New York band, Tree City is a lush landscape of peaks and valleys, of up-tempo Beatles-influenced pop and grandiose melodic structure. Opening up with a couple of admirable tracks, the disc truly starts to hit its stride with “Beneath The Trees,” a lush relaxation gem, and “Amanda Green,” an infectious song about infatuation. “Love Underground” struck me as my favorite track the first listen through and holds up as a strong pop song time after time. Reaching the half way point, the balance of the album is what strikes you the most. It moves from groove to smooth to rock to pop without ever making the transition apparent to the ear. “The Price & Style” is the laid back masterpiece of the disc and opens up the second half with a bold but understated alert. “Bring On The Terror” picks things up a little bit as a beautiful lead in to the albums signature song, “Big Winter,” a song that combines every skill and style the band has into a great composition of what exactly makes them great. “Killer Bees” and “Hudson Tubes” continue with strength and style winding down into “Montefiore,” the cathartic caboose to the disc. The only thing that keeps this album from receiving the highest praise and honor is the fact that it does sound so similar to another band. Unfortunately for the band, this may serve as too big a hurdle for some to get over, but those who take the time to clear it will be well rewarded with one of the more stellar full length debuts of the year. As the year progresses, only time will tell what quality other discs will offer, but the chances are good this release will be right at the top of the heap when all is said and done. [www.robbersonhighstreet.com]