From the first riff, I knew this quartet shared my love for mid-’90s emo. And we’re not talking about what passes for “emo” these days. No, I mean American Football, Braid, Christie Front Drive, Mineral, and the like. In fact, that first riff sounds quite similar to the one in The Get Up Kids’ “Better Half” from their first full length (back when they sounded more lo-fi than they would become). These two songs stir a curiosity in me that leaves me wanting to hear more. Few have rekindled this style with such grace and accuracy while still maintaining a fresh, unique approach. Empire! Empire! (I Was A Lonely Estate) do this… even if they’re name is entirely too long.
Count Your Lucky Stars Records