easter. - We Have Such Straight Teeth

Easter.

We Have Such Straight Teeth
self-released; 2014

3.7 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Easter. is a solo project for high-school senior Emmett McCleary who recently released his first solo record entitled We Have Such Straight Teeth. I’m not sure how long McCleary has been composing music but it seems obvious to me after listening to We Have Such Straight Teeth that the guy has talent well beyond his years.

McCleary is a decent guitar player but his biggest strengths are his vocals and songwriting. He has an attractive, soothing voice that will draw comparisons to Elliott Smith. It pulls you in and doesn’t let go till the song is over. Lyrically, McClearly often paints poignant even thought-provoking words that you have a hard time believing are coming from a teenager. 
There are eight songs on the album and most of them range from about two to three minutes in length. The album goes by quickly but also manages to display some of the versatility of McCleary. 

The first song “Birthday” is under two-minutes long but establishes that McCleary can write a catchy pop song. He initially combines guitar, vocals and organic percussive elements. As the song progresses a distorted bass and distant sounding guitars come into the mix. The last part reminded of something the band Wavves would come out with.

“Run and Hide” is another accomplished song this time implementing a more traditional drum set. HIs vocal melodies as well the guitar riffs here are some of the best on the album. Other highlights you won’t want to pass up are “Wreck!” “Naomi and Me” and “I Made This Bed and Now I Must Sleep In It.“

McCleary impressed me and I hope to hear a lot more from him in the future. I’m interested to hear the songs he will be writing in ten years.

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