The Graduate - Anhedonia

With the release of Anhedonia, The Graduate prove that they are one of the most promising new bands of 2007. Sharp and well produced, their sound features the bittersweet and nostalgic lyrics of frontman Corey Warning, whose often soaring vocals give songs like "Sit & Sink," the title track and "Better Company" raw emotion and an intense dose of reality. This same honesty is also clear in their musical choices. The opening riff to "Sit & Sink" sounds a little like a more distortion-laden "Where The Streets Have No Name," and the band is not shy about following the arpeggiated style of guitarist like the Edge. Even in their slower ("Surround Yourself") or slightly experimental ("Interlude") moments, the band shows that they have a knack for writing strong pop/rock songs, with a more than solid base from drummer Tim Moore keeping the sound forceful and impacting. So make sure you check out this band, as they will be one everybody will be talking about as one of the best new bands of the year. At the very least, you'll feel great when you can say you knew them before they blew up. [www.wearethegraduate.com]