Montagues & Capulets - Landscape of Youth

Montagues & Capulets

Landscape of Youth
self-released; 2014

3.8 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Montagues & Capulets formed in 2013 and two of the members aren’t even out of the teenage years but the band is already showing some talent and are writing songs that sound well beyond their years on their recent full-length Landscape of Youth. The lead singer and guitar player Nathan Baverstock has a good singing voice and sounds more like he in his mid 20’s. On top of that he shows complexity and original thought within his lyrics. He ties in mature themes, poetic metaphors and avoids clichés while doing so.

The other members of the band’s contributions only enhance Baverstock’s ability. The lead guitar by Ross Allen is an integral part to the songs. There were a number of guitar parts that were notable on the album. George Kerridge plays bass and doesn’t just stick to root notes. A song like “Song For The Last Dancer” turns into a funky dance tune because of his bass line. Last but not least is Benjamin Chatburn whose drumming fits around the songs like a glove. His style of drumming is less concerned with impressing the listener with technical mastery but instead tries to play what's most appropriate for the song.

I have to say the production is excellent throughout. There was a lot of separation between the instruments and even at low volumes I could clearly hear everything within the mix. On top of that the vocals were obviously treated by someone who knows how to use a compressor.

The album has a good flow and feel if you listen to it from the first track. It starts with “Song For The Last Dancer,” which is an upbeat song that provides a good amount of energy. It’s a bit funky yet incorporates rock. A good comparison might be Franz Ferdinand, The Killers, The Strokes or even Phoenix.

“Waiting On You” is another solid song and displays some good vocal work. Catchy stuff “A Modern Love” slows down the beat and displays the band can play soul music. Baverstock pours some emotion to his voice and has a singing style more in common with Jamie Lidell and James Blake than anything else.

Landscape of Youth is great start from a band that I wouldn't expect to already be this tight. Things are looking good for these young chaps.

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