The April Year

See link. - Under The Gun Review

April will be a huge month for me. The day I finally turn eighteen will be in that pleasant month. So of course, a band called The April Year has to be solid. And solid they are. The April Year knows how to make mid tempo keys laden pop music. What does The First Time In Forever sound like? Imagine what A Rocket To The Moon would be if Justin helped them write Brightenesque songs or the stronger tracks by The Maine. "Through Hell And High Hopes" is extremely reminiscent of the best songs from The Maine's Can't Stop Won't Stop, and is a perfect song to put on while in the car with the girl you are interested in. This is the kind of music you blast when you're alone and don't care what anyone thinks of you. We all need that fun little pop band that can bring a smile to our faces. Stream the whole EP on Purevolume here. - Muzik Dizcovery

The April Year are a Chicago based quartet known for their insane amount of talent despite only forming in mid-2010. Their catchy and upbeat indie/pop tracks have given them a loyal following of fans who have all responded incredibly well to their debut EP release The First Time In Forever.

Opening up with Meet Me Here we are introduced slowly to the sincerity of the vocals accompanied by soft keys to set the pace. As the tempo picks up, the riffs and beats kick in full force throwing us into a simply wonderful upbeat pop track. While dancing along may be necessary, the thought provoking lyrics not only make for a good sing-song but they in turn tell a story. With the chorus providing that little more energy, the breakdown of the bridge really helps divide the song into segments so we can appreciate each instrument featured. One of my favorite tracks that easily puts a smile onto my face.

Through Hell And High Hopes begins with prominent drum beats and steady riffs. Clear vocals are sung throughout, and the tone of the verses provides us with a slower, more structured tempo. As the chorus approaches the energy picks up to reflect the sudden burst of emotion portrayed through the lyrics. A solid track about a tricky subject, love and the heartache that goes with it.

The start of I Can’t Get Enough reminded me of nothing more than a cheesy love song you would expect to be featured on the TV. I guess that could be taken in a negative light, but in the end we all end up knowing, loving and singing along to these types of songs. Although it is a fairly short track, after a few listens the simple yet memorable tune may just have you bopping your head along whilst simultaneously singing the chorus of “love love love I can’t get enough”. It’s a happy go-lucky song, and as much as you try to fight it, you’re probably going to end up having a soft spot for it.

Closing the EP is So Much For The Art Museum which wastes no time in supplying a powerful drum beat and unforgettable riffs. The tempo chops and changes, making for an interesting listen. The vocals are sharp and precise and I actually can’t fault the finish of this song at all. Towards the end, the pace slows right down and fades out leaving you with that feeling of wanting to play the whole EP again.

Overall, this was an extremely enjoyable EP which I have continued to listen to all the way through more than a couple of times. With strong lyrics accompanied by musical elements this EP is highly impressive for a debut and I suggest that everyone goes out and picks up a copy – you won’t regret it!

Rating: 9.5/10
Release Date: January 18, 2011
Record Label: Unsigned
Recommended Tracks: “Meet Me Here” / “So Much For The Art Museum”
- The Sound Alarm

Relatively new to the music scene is the talented Chicago-based indie/pop quartet, The April Year. Forming in mid-2010 the action has never stopped from the get-go within this talented group. Made up of Spencer Walters (vocals), Timothy Blom (bass), Tyler Madden (guitar/vocals) and the latest addition David Tansey (drums), these boys have continued to work hard and strengthen their band as a whole. What they may lack in experience they make up for in fierce determination, as already within the space of a few months they have managed to make their mark by taking a spot on PureVolume’s Top Unsigned Bands of 2010.

In just under a year they have achieved so much. From a wide range of press and label interest, to radio plays and popular shows I’m surprised it hasn’t all been a bit too much to handle. None the less The April Year have kept fighting, resulting in the release of their debut EP The First Time In Forever in mid-January 2011.

The First Time In Forever holds a theme of love, and covers the experiences and emotions you feel both falling in and out of love. As a universal topic, telling their tales about love through music was an important task for The April Year to take on, as being relatable and understood whilst sharing different perspectives was key. With sing-song choruses throughout and heartfelt lyrics it’s hard not to become a fan of this band or the music they produce.

With 2011 looking to be a strong year for these boys, I expect we will be seeing a lot of them in the future. A whole new world of opportunities have opened up for them, and they are all more than willing to grasp them with both hands. Not only does this reinforce their dedication to music, but also to themselves as people and musicians. I have a feeling this band could be one that we all need to look out for.

Be sure to also check out our review of The First Time In Forever which will be posted within the next few weeks! - The Sound Alarm

See link. - ReviewRinseRepeat

#15 on Purevolume's Top 20 Unsigned Bands 2010 - Purevolume