The CRex - Nice To Meet You

The Crex

Nice To Meet You
self-released; 2014

3.8 out of 5

By Samantha Kanne

It’s always sort of interesting to see how English or American bands affect other countries. In this case, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd have all given strong inspiration to Denmark’s The Crex consisting of band members Benjamin William Zebis, Marcus Emil Sørensen, Philip Sture Larsen and August Jensen. 

“Heartbreaker,” the opener on their new album Nice To Meet You gave me unexpected upbeat funk. Upon first listen, I was not expecting such a catchy tune riddled with great saxophone riffs, given their list of muses. I was optimistic to the rest of the album sounding similar to this, but this was not the case.

The album’s second track, “Shy Guy” sounds like a song by the cousin-band of The Killers. But it also sounds like a fun ‘90s pop-rock jam that comes on the radio after you get out of school on a Friday afternoon. Unfortunately, the songs “The Door” and “Alexander the Soldier” sound a little too much like their heroes Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. However, the guitar solo that comes in towards the middle of “Alexander the Soldier” is very impressive.

The Crex’s songs on Nice To Meet You are big; they seem to be meant for massive stages. But there’s also a contrast, which is greatly appreciated with any album. There are upbeat rockers and funky singles and there’s also ballads, where Zebis sings his heart out (give “I Will Love You Till the End” a good listen).

The opening guitars on “Flying for Tomorrow” remind me a little of “Prelude” by Foals, an incredible instrumental track from their album Holy Fire. But it quickly pushes aside any trace of Foals and brings in big drums, big guitars and thick bass lines. Again, perfect for any big stage. “Flying for Tomorrow” stands out the most to me, right next to “Heartbreaker.” Both are great tunes; classic and just the right amount of pop and rock.

The Crex’s sounds on Nice To Meet You almost remind me of the mid 2000’s when bands like The Bravery, The Killers and Franz Ferdinand were massive. They combined the likes of Depeche Mode with electronics and guitars with the sounds of heavy ‘70s rock bands. As we arrive at ten-ish years since the previously named bands made airwaves, it’s interesting to see a new crop of music mirroring their work.

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