The Royal Sound - cinema

The Royal Sound

Cinema
self-released; 2013

3.6 out of 5

By Eva Cantillo

Cinema is the newest album from the young four-piece Californian rock group The Royal Sound.  The album is reminiscent of classic American rock bands like Seether, with a more progressive feel similar in sound to Circa Survive. The band describes their new album as written in two pieces, one side dark, and the other light, with each being told from different points of view. The sentiment can be felt as the album morphs from one shade, to the other.

Cinema seems to be about an internal conflict and the album takes the listener through the struggle of restlessness and a sense of longing hope. "West" is the first song we are presented with on the album. It is a catchy rock song full of crunchy  guitars, infectious vocal melodies and overall good songwriting. The album continues with "Holiday" which has a Zeppelin-esque vibe (as well as stellar vocal harmonies) that was one of the highlights on the album. The darkness starts with the track "Bloom"; this is where the conflict between a son and a father begins to unfold. The song is a bit sorrowful, the melody drags on and the vocals are somewhat whiney. That being said it is still a solid song that got better with repeated listens. The drama continues with "Plans," and even though the song is dark, there is some refreshing optimism heard through gentle flute melodies, but then shortly after, the screaming lyrics "no love words" brings us right back to the strife. "Five" is a classic anthem of struggle that has some of the best guitar riffs on the album. The album closes with "Red," which is an all out venting on dissatisfaction of unfortunate situations.

Overall, the band has a good rock sound for those akin to indie-dark-progressive-rock. The lyrics on the album are meaningful and also tell a story that can engage listeners and provide a way to relate for some. In regards to the album’s dark and light sides, it seems as though the band is a bit more on the dark side with their deep riffs, running drum patterns, and intense vocals. Look out for The Royal Sound touring California this summer.

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