Review: Palomar - All Things, Forests (or) islands in the stream

Posted on 9 May 2007 | No Comments

Filed Under: Album Reviews, Indie Rock, Just Plain Rock

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The Brooklynites in Palomar have returned with their fourth full-length All Things, Forests and after hearing the album I’m surprised that is the first I’ve ever heard from the band. All Things, Forests is bouncy but bitter female-fronted indie-pop rock that reminds me of The Cranberries flirting with Travis when they are both obviously more interested in Rainer Maria. Too moody and too rockin’ to call it twee.

When Rachel Warren’s sweet breathy vocals cascade up against vibrant piano melodies and crunchy fuzzed-out guitars it is something you just gotta hear. Simple but engaging melodies that are poppy but a little dark and (strangely) remind me of both Alkaline Trio and Jenny Lewis. Palomar’s sound might be a little sour but at its core is decidedly sugary sweet. Yeah its a little this and a little that, but its poppy and it rocks and if it wasn’t for some bad luck I’m sure the band would be way bigger by now.

All Things, Forests is out now on the great Misra Records.

MP3 | Palomar – Bury Me Closer All Things, Forests
MP3 | Palomar – The Air Between Us All Things, Forests