War Tapes

The Continental Divide

May 26, 2009

War Tapes was introduced to me early last year with the description “They kind of sound like Alkaline Trio” attached to it. While I am admittedly a huge fan of Alkaline Trio, I am a fan of War Tapes for a much different reason.

While they have an overall sound that straddles the line between shoegaze and punk, their lead vocals make them stand out above more non-descript bands in a flooded rock revival that is today’s “indie” scene. Neil Popkin’s lo-fi vocals bring to mind Morrisey’s swoon mashed elegantly with Matt Skiba’s dark, almost evil lyrics. Combining two of my all-time favorite lead vocalists is a very easy way to find a permanent home in my iTunes library.

Even if you’re not a fan of The Smiths or Alkaline Trio, you will be able to find something positive with War Tapes to take away from a listen of The Continental Divide. I maintain that this album is one of the summer’s hidden gems that will be making a few appearances on Best of 2009 lists.

By Edward Gaug