The Orchard Thieves

Oh, how I love this. I had a feeling I would – The Orchard Thieves’ lineup includes a member of the dark pop/very gothic rock band Sky Salt, whose CD I fell in love with a couple of years ago. The man is D. Patrick, who has now teamed up with Jeff Stephens, Vin Aliberto, and Josh Boelter. I wish I could tell you who does what in this band, especially since the vocals are to die for and those guitars have the energy of a tsunami wiping out the east coast from Miami to New York City, but the bio doesn’t contain that information. If any of you readers happen to catch this band live, please report back to me so I can give specific credit on their future projects.

For folks who like their pop sophisticated and their lyrics heartfelt and intelligent, this is your band. This is emotional darkness without whining, wild fun without silliness, and rock that is sweeping and orchestral without pretentiousness. Whether The Orchard Thieves are giving us a ballad or a full on rock opera, there is a sensual flow to the melody and a magical vibe that is enhanced by the swirling in of cello, synths, piano, mandolin, and ambient six string. I don’t know how an ambient six string guitar is different from other guitars or what it even is, but I love it. They could tell me they’re playing an ambient tuba, and I wouldn’t question it. These guys are professionals. Just stay out of their way.

Standouts include the ballads “I Suppose” and “Behind the Wheel.” The former contains some heavenly high notes (again, who is this singing?) and the latter is far more grounded (I wondered if it was the same vocalist) with an earthier vibe to the music. My personal favorite is “Cross to Bear,” a pulse-quickening tempo with a sensual melody – the perfect dance track for the gothic/industrial set.

No missteps anywhere on this CD, which is quite impressive for their first time out of the gate. Throughout the CD, the music flows, rises, and roars like a sonic ocean. Fantastic. Get out there to see them live. Bring a lifejacket. - www.indie-music.com

Sturdy electric guitars and lusty drums from the '90s alt/pop archive anchor this recent addition to the NYC ranks. But before we go making Matthew Sweet comparisons, let's dig a bit deeper. The group tests its tether with noir twinges and godly vocals somewhere between Bolan and Buckley. - Download.com Music