ZapTown

Demander
Future Brite
Self-Released
Rating: 4 out of 5

Links:
Band home: http://vimeo.com/9746894
Band MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/demander

Released in January of this year, Future Bright is an entire butt-load of fun. It’s a collection of somewhat simple yet rather punchy, energetic, aggressive pop tunes. Compared to their 2 earlier releases, the Future Bright LP is brighter and more experienced, while increasing the energy and focus. Demander practically requires crowd sing-along.  Obviously well rehearsed for the studio, Demander has to be a lot of fun live. I get the feeling many babies will be made listening to this record. I hope it was released with a disclaimer.

I’d be a bit surprised if they don’t get approached for radio and television video rotation.  This band would have enjoyed as much rotation on MTV’s120 Minutes as Pearl Jam and Nine Inch Nails had they existed 20 years ago. The alternative and indie labels should be ashamed of themselves for not beating down Demander’s door for publishing rights. Ashamed. Tsk.

Karen Correa sings and plays bass, Sian Harlap beats the drums like they deserve it, Jared Scott plays guitar. Included in the album are a whole host of guest artists. Go to their website to get the list.

The title track, “Future Bright” provides ice dynamic- break down with bass and drums, moving to piano chords, then on to high-distortion guitars with a definite industrial metal feel, and finally ends up in string section with myriad parts playing together. Honestly, it sounds more like a description for Norwegian black metal music than for power op, but I assure you it’s true. Karen’s sultry vocals reign throughout the track.

The fifth song, “Math” comes in at a brisk 2 ½ minutes long, with plenty of punch in the bass and bouncing steady drums. The guitars sound like Johnny Mars chords and strumming. Sing along vocals with repetitive chorus and guitar hooks and sounds. Check out the video link below.

“Coulee” has more fun guitar hooks and great vocal textures. It’s a dynamic piece, with slow crescendos and quick drops in the tempo. “Rising” is similar, but with almost steady energetic driving beat.

The production is good, showing some skeelz in the recording studio. The bright, energetic, and dynamic sound lends itself very well to the power pop and alternative rock that Demander delivers. With strong and breathy vocals, Karen sounds as if she were born for the role. The bass is strong and driving providing the backbone of the rhythm, and the guitars show a wealth of ability. The drums are full of highs and high-mids in the playback which is damned-near perfect for the album.

RIYL: Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Killers, Strokes, Archers of Loaf.

Check out the “Math” video:
http://vimeo.com/9746894

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