Against the Clocks - Against the Clocks

Against the Clocks

Against the Clocks
self-released; 2014

3.5 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

Against the Clocks hail from the Indianapolis area and have been together for only a year, a surprising fact for a group with such a seasoned sound. Of course, they have this tight musical unity due to the fact they all grew up together and went to the same high school. They balanced different bands for a while until finding the right mix within Against the Clocks. The two totems of talent can be found at the mic. Vocalists Logan and Landry are very strong singers who also give great performances on piano as well as many other instruments. All the members have honed their style and sound through mutual exchanges rather than ever folding into the bar band cover scene.  They’re just starting their journey into solo touring well supported by their experience opening for national acts in the past.

Logan and Landry’s approach to Against the Clocks is an irresistible formula of “what’s next?” The two trade vocal leads and at times are present together infusing their lovely harmonies. Logan’s voice is peculiar and pure while Landry has a rich tone that cuts through the music. Their self-titled five-track EP Against the Clocks takes on many shapes and colors, always returning to the urgency of artful piano rock.  

Adult contemporary at its finest is what we have here – the guitars are tame but full force, the drums stately and supportive, and things get just raw enough that you feel you might have learned some kind of life lesson when it’s all over. When the vocals exchange, the moods and intensity levels fluctuate keeping this album contrasting while interesting at the same time.  It was hard to find a standout track, but I feel Against the Clocks should be appreciated as a whole, one of those few albums that really sit into you if you take in the whole score.

On “Always Be” the beat is on the edge of paranoia while the piano lays down a lovely little melody following the snare pattern outline. By the chorus, the time is loose to start, but soon opens up with hard-hitting cymbals and widening strings. Landry keeps his voice cool but the power can’t be ignored. “Away You Go” is a touch less indie rock and more modern with the further distorted guitar and catchy chorus. The piano is put in the forefront on “Maybe Someday” and the intimacy is a nice touch for the album close. By the end, things are beautifully lost in a cloud of sound that fades like an ethereal breeze.

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