They say that college will be some of the best years of your life. You’ll find “yourself.” Join a million clubs (but only go to two), spend endless days in the library (you’ve found the perfect way to make a bed of out desks and chairs), take classes where you’ve already predicted the end (searching google for G.P.A calculators while buying cheap comfort food), get what seems like a dollar from the government, skip class to study for class and call it Christmas when professors cancel. A perfect experience. Not finishing would hurt you—unless you’re American Authors of course. The four piece band consisting of Zac Barnett (lead vocals and guitar), Dave Rublin (bassist), Matt Sanchez (drummer), and James Shelley (lead guitar and banjo) met at Berklee College of Music in 2006; left and created music that truly soothes.
Their debut album, Oh, What A Life, stormed into stores this month and it’s phenomenally uplifting beyond belief. Every song moves you. If you need help finding your muse or gaining the confidence to face what comes your way, listen to American Authors Oh, What A Life.
Oh, What A Life opens up with “Believer,” where American Authors showcase what they’re bringing to the world. The song highlights Barnett’s wide vocal range and it’s ecstatic. The chorus is touching as it evokes the things “will get better” despite the “misleading” demons dragging one down. This song is an anthem. “Believer,” also divulges the folk-pop sound the band has taken to heart. It’s a strong way to outline what’s to come.
As you move along, American Authors hit you with their single, “Best Day of My Life,”which is infectious. The harmonies and underlying banjo really reinforce the song. Shelley’s banjo skills are impeccable. I want Sanchez to teach me how to play the drums because I can’t get over how good he is. When this song plays in the car, I sing at the top of my lungs and I know you will too. Barnett’s vocals are on fire and when the others answer it’s hypnotic. When they stop for those few seconds, it leaves you wanting more.
Another favorite of mine, “Luck” is incredibly composed and American Authors deserve countless praise. Perhaps with pizza… From the very beginning it’s a fantastic melody and lyrics convey what has been left unsaid. Barnett sings, “I’m sorry, Mother/I know I let you down/I’m sorry, Father/I didn’t stick around/Please just listen cause I don’t ask for much/I am my own man/I make my own luck,” and it gives you reassurance to chase your dreams and leave a ridiculous small town; yes, choosing music over your parents’ planned future; it’s an anthem for all of those who have chosen to change their lives. “Some birds weren’t mean to be caged, ” Barnett sings. Rublin’s baseline is amazing; I wish he’d teach me too.
Every song on Oh, What A Life is an anthem. “Home” drops heavy with percussion and its harmonies deliver tremendously. You’re clapping in seconds. This song juxtaposes countless distinct elements from start to finish. Barnett sings, “I’m not trying to stop a hurricane/I’m not trying to shake the ground below/I’m just trying to find a way to make it back home,” it’s all too good.
American Authors song “Love,” is one I want played as I’m walking downtown–it gives you this feeling like “hey , I’m in a movie and something great is about to happen”. The harmonies are lovely. The band closes with “Oh, What A Life.” That baseline is something–good. American Authors conjures up this powerful goodbye, still being as uplifting as when they started. Nostalgia is embedded all over; you’re reminiscing. Overall, Oh, What A Life, is great album coming from the Brooklyn based band. American Authors sound is strong and not to mention compelling. Incorporating folk elements into what they do deliver memorable songs. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this band.
Rating: 5/5
http://weareamericanauthors.com/
Ileana also writes for Moderately Indie.