Select Start – The New Atlantic EP
Record Label: Unrivaled Management
Release Date: May 20, 2011
Coming from Tampa, Florida, Select Start are a pop-rock band headed by Daniel Lancaster (the brother of Go Radio’s vocalist Jason Lancaster). They recorded their sophomore EP, The New Atlantic, with Lee Dyess (Mayday Parade, From First To Last, Go Radio), proving Daniel may very well be following Jason to success, although fronting an entirely different group than that of Go Radio.
Evident from the opening “A Man Amongst Gentlemen,” it’s clear that Select Start are not exactly the norm for a pop-rock band, as Lancaster’s heartfelt vocals are backed by horns and old-fashioned country-style guitar play. After the first taste of his unique vocals, Lancaster shines throughout “Hands to the Ceiling” on what may be the vocal pinnacle of The New Atlantic. Throughout the track, Lancaster shows off his pipes in an almost Max Bemis fashion, which is not a bad style for him by any means. Similarly, “Hold Your Ground” channels a little more of the signature pop sound of The Format (or fun.) vocally, with Lancaster and Joe Guerra complimenting one another on vocals.
Conversely, the acoustic “Only You” provides an entirely different view of Select Start on this old-fashioned sounding pop gem, utilizing violins and sky-high vocals to add to the depth of this supreme number. The record clearly balances straightforward pop tunes (the upbeat “The (Pretty) Good Life”) with stripped down, raw acoustic tracks (the closing “So Far”). Each are memorable in their own way, but particularly it is the final performance on “So Far” that truly conveys the uniqueness of Select Start, with each of the six members chiming in throughout this bare performance, proving there aren’t too many other pop bands like this. As the EP closes, it’s apparent that those expecting another Go Radio will be disappointed; however, fans with an open mind looking for some fun, unique pop tunes will be right at home with Select Start.
This is a little odd, but am I the only one picking up ymaewk vibes on this? I was talking to Matt at the show on Friday, and he said that he wasn't hearing it, but it's just screaming things are really weird right now. But in a good way. Am I insane?
This is a little odd, but am I the only one picking up ymaewk vibes on this? I was talking to Matt at the show on Friday, and he said that he wasn't hearing it, but it's just screaming things are really weird right now. But in a good way. Am I insane?
this was the exact vibe i was getting from it. i should have a review up on mindequalsblown.net by the end of the week.
EP is interesting. I can't help but be a little disappointed, as they did the whole pop-punk (with emphasis on the pop) better than anyone else, but the songs are fun and super-solid, so I can't be disappointed for too long.
This is a little odd, but am I the only one picking up ymaewk vibes on this? I was talking to Matt at the show on Friday, and he said that he wasn't hearing it, but it's just screaming things are really weird right now. But in a good way. Am I insane?
That's exactly the band i compared them to when i was telling my friends about the new record. Lots of different instrument use, etc.
Joe's a good singer and all, but for some reason his voice just seems very bland and plain to me. I find myself just waiting for daniel to come in on each song...
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