Foreign Tongues - Glue EP Review

Artist: Foreign Tongues

Album: Glue

Record Label: Youth Conspiracy Records

Foreign Tongues' blend of alternative rock/grunge/indie/emo is comparable to the likes of Basement, Tigers Jaw, and Balance and Composure, especially the latter. The structure of their songs follow a similar quiet to loud flow that wouldn't feel out of place on Balance and Composure's recent album Separation. Trust me, this comparison is a compliment.

"Winter Sun" is a mid-tempo emo track that begins as a light drizzle before building into a lightning storm with its climax. Cameron Moretti's vocals sound desperate and wounded as he belts "We're all one in the same, but I can't help but feel this way," during the stormy conclusion. The overall sound is one that is enjoyably familiar to fans of this style of music. "Origami" has the EP's most interesting instrumentation in part to Andy Tamulonis's rhythmic bass work and Joey Barthlette's drumming. The triple guitars from Jame's Scuderi, Nick Holman, and Sean Harrington make repeated listens more interesting, since it's near impossible to catch all the guitar work done in a single play through.

Glue loses it's two track win streak with "No Sex." The song sounds awkward and out of place, and also fails to live up to the quality that is set by the previous two songs. However, "No Sex" may make a better live transition since the chorus screams for audience participation. This thankfully is the only real misstep with Glue.

The last two songs are much more enjoyable. "Salt" bounces along with a driving drum beat, subtle keyboard chimes, and a guitar solo that sounds like something the Silversun Pickups would write if they decided to become an emo/grunge band. The last track "Mocking Bird" closes the album on Glue's heaviest note, and a high one as well. 

Glue is worth a listen for fans of Balance and Composure, Basement, and Tigers Jaw. While Glue may not be the next must have EP for the genre, it's still a solid piece of alternative/grunge/emo music (we need a name for that... maybe emungitive?) that fans of the genre will no doubt enjoy.

PS.

The band is offering the album as a pay what-you-want digital download over at their bandcamp page. 100% of the proceeds are going to the One Fund onefundboston.org.

Have you heard the album? Leave us your thoughts in the comments section below!

Verdict: 4/5 (Great)