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Written by Alex Bates Friday, 21 March 2008 19:51

Lucy Bland's first full-length album, Down to Sea Level, could definitely use some help staying afloat.

Lucy Bland's first full-length album, Down to Sea Level, could definitely use some help staying afloat. This four-member band's 10-song album isn't lacking in its variety and choice of instruments, but in its too consistent and monotone vocals.

Guitars, drums, a keyboard, a cello and a violin combine in different ways to form pleasant and soothing melodies for most of the songs. The band gets more experimental with some tracks, using sci-fi sounds and effects in songs such as "Venice," "The Bridge" and "Crashing Waves."

The vocals leave much to be desired as they don't always mix well with the music. They sound less like singing and more like elongating words. Skipping to the next song won't help; the vocals for each song sound the same as the one before.

The standout tracks are "Sea Level" and "Valor" for their upbeat and catchy rhythms. The song "Fly Away" is one of the better tracks because it fits best with the music.

Most of the songs would sound much better if the vocals were taken out. They seem to override the instrumentals and drag the song down. One song, "Plumb," offers a chance to hear plain, pure music. If more songs were like this one, the album would be more pleasant to the ears. C | Alex Bates

RIYL: Portishead, Bjork, Iron and Wine