The Color Wheels

The Color Wheels

Written by: PP on 10/09/2009 15:38:04

A little while ago I reviewed Jon Sebastian's main project Paper The Operator and their new EP "Solemn Boyz", noting that PTO are actually far better than his side project The Color Wheels. As is becoming more like the norm than exception when I talk about bands I don't really know much about, several active listening sessions later I'm now wondering how on earth I could've ever made that statement. Why? Well, their self-titled record is simply a very enjoyable and easily accessible emo pop / alternative rock album that doesn't sacrifice longevity in the process.

The differences between Sebastian's two projects is not vast soundwise. Paper The Operator lean slightly more towards emotional pop punk, i.e. faster songs, whereas The Color Wheels is somewhat more balladic, borrowing from indie rock and alternative rock instead. Both bands sound like early Jimmy Eat World, Weezer, The Stereo and other original emo bands, but not overwhelmingly so. Sebastian's soft-but-smooth voice has enough character for it to be immediately recognized as his and his only. This is best seen on the playful "Cruisin' For A Bruisin'" where the melodies are incredibly poppy but yet oh so enjoyable, not to even mention how they stick to your mind like super glue. The latter track should also remind you of Tigers Jaw slightly.

If I were to criticize the album for something, however, it'd be that almost all the songs sound a like. But I don't think it's such a big problem because nearly every track on the record is good. It's not difficult to begin singing along to tracks like "Plain Jane", "Hot For A Teacher" (not a Van Halen cover!), "Let's Play House" and the rest of the bunch. Anyone who considers early Jimmy Eat World a huge influence on their musical taste today should already be on their way to their (online?) record store.

7

Download: Cruisin' For A Bruisin', Camping Trip, Rock My World
For the fans of: Paper The Operator, Jimmy Eat World, The Stereo, Weezer
Listen: Myspace

Release date January 2009
Viper Bite Records

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