City Circuits has been active in the Toronto music scene for almost four years. They spent much of that time searching for their sound. They recently found that sound and used it to create their debut EP If Your Heart Is Open. Their decision to wait sounds like the right one. The EP shows a lot of promise, and leaves the listener waiting for more. The EP is six tracks long, but after listening to it you’ll wish there were more. A self-described “indie alternative rock band from Toronto, Ontario” the band is made up of David Smith (vocals/rhythm guitar), Corey Biot (lead guitar), Jonathan Smith (drums) and Paul Rossi (bass).
The EP opens with the synth and guitar effect laden “If You Heart Is Open.” The vocals are breathy, the drums and guitar are urgent and the synth creates an atmospheric sound. The band sounds full with a sound made up of many complementing layers. The chorus is where the band really opens, as the drums take off and the vocals get louder. The guitar is no longer palm-muted, and the true tone of the instrument can be heard. The chords ring out over the background vocals that carry the lead cry “If your heart is open / Then let me in.” Up next is “Stay The Night.” The synths are replaced by electric pianos, the guitar has no obvious effects on it and the vocals are front and center in the mix. The line of the chorus asking to “Stay the night” can be sincerely felt. It is an emotional Goliath, and is sure to warrant a repeat listen to hear the full story the lyrics have to tell. Fans of Bleachers, the Killers, Foster the People or Delta Spirit will find If Your Heart Is Open to be an enjoyable listen. City Circuits takes influence from the styles of these bands and puts their own heart and soul into the sound. The band recorded in their home studio, a task that can easily get sidetracked if a band is not focused or skilled enough to complete the task. City Circuits shows an incredible discipline, and a desire to create their music for their fans. The sincerity can be heard in the lyrics and felt in the instrumental work. The album is produced and mastered well, with the sound coming off as polished as a radio single. The skill and knowledge that the band has is impressive, and the final product they’ve released is remarkable. Listen to this as soon as you can if you’re looking for a more upbeat and exciting album to add to your rotation.
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