1997 - ...A Better View Of The Rising Moon

1997 strives to create a sound that feels like the era from which they take their name, with bands like Jimmy Eat World and the Promise Ring serving as very obvious influences for the musical stylings here. The focus and thrill of ...A Better View Of The Rising Moon, however, are the incredibly stirring dual vocals of frontman Kevin Thomas and vocalist/keyboardist Kerri Mack (who has since been replaced by new comer Alida Marroni). Neither is ever fully in control, but their weaving harmonies are nearly perfect throughout the record. Not only that, but the music is quite excellent as well, ranging from fluid rockers ("Water's Edge"), to smooth acoustic driven tunes (the Dylan-esque "The Roads You Can Take"), to moving ballads ("Grace"). This is truly an engaging work by a band that should not be missed. [www.partylikeits1997.com]