The Mainland

Filling in for another band at the last minute and playing the opening slot at a half-dead club has got to be a tough gig. Life in 24 Frames took on the challenge with a positive attitude as they played to the 10 or so patrons in the crowd on Friday at the newly opened nightclub, Evolv. Unfortunately, Life in 24 Frames’ set was as listless as the club that night. Life in 24 Frames play slow, depressing ambient/experimental music that lacks hooks and anything that could be described as “catchy” or “radio friendly.” The set might have been salvaged had the band possessed some semblance of stage presence, but the musicians were as immoveable as their music.

The truth hurts, but the crowd seemed to be falling asleep as the end of each song was followed by dead silence until the merciful music reviewer would start clapping. It’s not that the music was necessarily bad; it’s just that the music is so incredibly mellow and atmospheric it doesn’t translate well in a live setting. Listening to Life in 24 Frames while writing a paper, making out, or falling asleep? Sure. But that’s what Life in 24 Frames play: background music.

Thankfully, The Mainland had the antidote to Life in 24 Frames sleepy set. The Yuba City band livened things up with music in the vein of The Fray and The All-American Rejects. Songs like “I Don’t Want to Fall” and “Small Town Supernova” sounded primed for mainstream radio-play. Lead singer Josh Brooks displayed charisma as he transitioned effortlessly between guitar and electric piano while sharing stories about recording with the crowd. The whole band played with an energy that was especially impressive considering the light and lifeless crowd. With an indie hipster look to match their popular alternative sound, The Mainland are deserving of success, or at the very least, a bigger and better crowd. - The Examiner

Rock music out of California is generally synonymous with warm weather, fast cars, and a certain "Appetite for Destruction" that only 'The Golden State' can provide. But there is an exception to every rule, and the Mainland are this exception. Based out of Yuba City, The Mainland released their debut EP "Last Call" in 2009 and while success has begun to follow them, they don't necessarily fit the California mold.

Founding Members Josh Brooks (Lead Vocals, Piano, Guitar), Derek Wenz (Lead Guitar), and Kristen Costa (drums) formed the band in 2008, eventually recruiting bassist Dana Packard and acoustic guitarist Jake Abbott. The Mainland started recording their debut EP with marginal expectations for success; however after realizing what they had created after leaving the studio, the band's popularity began to grow in Northern CA. After a successful 2009 that marked the release of their debut EP in March, as well as two awards at the Malibu Music Awards including "Best Rock Band of 2009" and "Artist of the Year", The Mainland are ready to venture outside California to see just how far the music from "Last Call" can go.

From start to finish, the five track EP is mellow, clean, and passionate. The Mainland embody a sound that is reminiscent of a few tracks from John Mayer's "Room for Squares" or a few of Five for Fighting’s early singles. With the harmonies created by the three guitars and the piano, every song is smooth. What would have been an ordinary soft rock guitar sound is taken to another level with the piano. It both ties together and puts the finishing touches on the sound that makes the Mainland unique. Nothing jumps up and surprises you or feels forced musically on "Last Call", but that is what makes this such a great listen, it sounds and feels familiar.

Lyrically the album feels very personal. Most of the songs relate to either a relationship or the longing for one. On the title track when Brooks sings, "I never really knew just what went wrong, I put a sad little melody to this song, for all the times she said she won't forget me" you are immediately put in his shoes, the recipient of the dreaded 'Dear John' letter or conversation. Pleading with his girl to stay but not wanting to hold her back from her dreams, he's forced with the reality that he has to let her go. While it may not be your exact situation, there are few out there that won't relate to these songs. This theme is consistent on "Breaking Down" and the faster paced track "I Can Change".

One song that is not on the EP but available on the band's My Space page is "Torn". On this track they turn Kristen Costa loose on the drums which results in a considerably faster, more driving beat and song. As Brooks agonizes what’s wrong and right while waiting through the storm of indecision, the song storms around you. It is a departure from the pace of the EP (Which may be why it didn't make it on there), but it may be the best song the band has written yet.

For a band that have only been together for a little over a year, the Mainland have racked up an impressive list of accomplishments. Based on the quality of "Last Call" and the newly released single "Torn", they are definitely poised to break out of the California Coast and find their way into The Mainland. - Rocksposure

Last Call is one of those EPs you won’t want to miss out hearing. The opening track, “We Don’t Have To Save Tonight”, is a beautiful song that could own the radio stations over. “I Don’t Wanna Fall” feels like The Fray and Third Eye Blind had a baby, which is a killer mix. “I Can Change” is a favorite track of mine, and sings about picking yourself back up and proving yourself to someone you love (something we can all relate to). It’s a sweet and personal song that is sure to go down as favorite love song for any who hear it. “Small Town Supernova” actually brought Buckcherry to mind, while “Last Call” felt like a combination of Jack’s Mannequin and The Bravery.

Listening through this EP is an emotional experience if you pay attention to the lyrics and melodies. At the least, you owe it to them and yourself to check these Californians out. This is a great release that is sure to put The Mainland on the map for record labels. I’d be surprised if they are not signed and ruling the world by the end of the summer.
- SKONLINE Magazine / By Nathaniel Lay

...this friday holds a very important day for these hometown heroes. The Mainland will be releasing their debut album "Last Call EP" and playing live at The Imperial. There is already talk that this will be the biggest show of the year hear in Yuba City. "We are just stoked that people like what they have heard so far. I mean this is only our second time playing in Yuba City and already I am being asked if I am the singer of The Mainland." stated front man Josh Brooks.
This five piece band has only been together for about a year but things are starting to pick up quick for these hopeful 23 year olds. However they have been friends and band mates for the last 8 years! "It's hard not to have a chemistry after that long." Guitarist Derek Wenz states." Well If these guys dont make it big it will be a heart drop for this town, who so quickly has grown to love these five young men.... - The Appeal Democrat / Josh Cruise