Mansions – self-titled

Doghouse Records

Though the band describes itself as being "indie alternative," I feel that the best classification of this EP should also include "emo." It's kind of angst-y and (occasionally) whiny, but who isn't every now and then? Mansions reminds me of a lot of classic emo bands, but with less screaming. While Christopher Browder's lyrics are stronger than those of more trendy pop punk bands, the music is slightly reminiscent. The instruments may be different, but the stylization is similar.

While Mansions is high quality and engaging, it is the type of album that leaves me feeling like I've heard it before. I'm confident that a full-length album would better showcase the band's creative talents. This EP seems to be serving as a kind of resume for the musicians. Somebody should hire them; these Kentuckians will make more than decent employees.

Mansions left me in a saddened mood on a day that I was already pretty depressed, and to me, that's not a good combination. If that's what the band was trying to achieve, they succeeded, and if that's something you'd like to listen to regularly, then this one's a winner.

Review by Lizz Clements