Alaska
Everything is Fine
Never Lost Records (2013)
Score: 8/10
There is nothing green about local youngsters, Alaska. With a few EPs and splits under their belts, and what seems like a thousand shows, saying Everything is Fine is their debut record feels a bit odd, albeit technically true. The band headed into bay area Panda Studios to record, which has seen the likes of Lionheart and The Story So Far and Everything is Fine sounds just as great as everything I’ve heard come out of there.
“Shot Down The Moon” is a fitting intro, touching on the intensity and range of tempo the album eventually displays. The funktastic melody of “Sundialing” jumped out at me instantly. “Even Dirt Finds Its Way Home” is a fast-paced versatile track, going from a metalcore-esque introduction to a punk rock finish. You wouldn’t be alone if the catchy track got stuck in your head for a few days. This is the best vocalist Elliott Rivera has ever sounded, mixing heavy growls with soaring croons without overdoing it or sounding whiny.
My favorite track on Everything is Fine is undoubtedly “Pt. II (before it shines).” Melancholy, honest, intense, catchy, heart-wrenching and heavy, it stole the show for me. Lead single, “Dead Creatures” is not to be outdone, however. Short and menacing, it drew me in right away with its eerie vibe and nifty guitar work. It culminates in my favorite breakdown, “Hide yourself behind a jury! Or just clean up your act!” I’m glad they chose this as the first single because of the vocal range, which goes from mumbling to guttural during the song’s heavy conclusion.
Everything is Fine is a more refined and lighter sound from Alaska. It’s ambitious and genre-spanning. I couldn’t be happier to see them move from playing the same local taco shop twice a week to showcasing a full-length album on a tour across the country, which is exactly what Alaska is doing these days. Make sure you see these kids when they hit a town near you, and don’t forget to buy Everything is Fine.
– Felipe Garcia
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