It’s Better That Way
Mpress, 2022
9/10
Listen to It’s Better That Way
It’s been a busy 15 years for A Fragile Tomorrow, and their diversity is at an all time high on this art-rock influenced 7th album that welcomes some recent line-up changes.
“All Signs To Amsterdam” opens the listen with a smooth and vibrant version of psyche-influenced rock that benefits much from acrobatic drumming and warm guitars, and “Feeder” follows with a bit of jangle in the technical and melodic indie-rock.
Closer to the middle, “Another Club” presents a mysterious intimacy that’s layered artistically, while “Eye For An Eye” is bit more firm, with dreamy moments of alt-rock flavored fun that you can’t not admire.
Deeper into the back half, “Look Out!” buzzes playfully amid the stylish demeanor of indie meets electro-pop, and “Riding A New Wave” exits with an indeed New Wave spirit populating the angular rhythm and infectious energy of the album’s best tune.
The A Fragile Tomorrow veterans Sean Kelly, Brendan Kelly, and Shaun Rhoades have recently welcomed Josh Kean (Electric Century -Mikey Way of My Chemical Romance, Sub Pop/Kill Rock Stars indie legend Danielle Howle) and Peter Holsapple (dB's, R.E.M., Hootie and the Blowfish, Continental Drifters), and their collective strength and vast experience makes for one of the most eclectic and memorable listens of the year.
Travels well with: Seth Glier- The Coronation; Grace Pettis- Working Woman