Solea - Finally, We Are Nowhere

Solea’s sophomore album Finally We Are Nowhere is hard to categorize. Solea has definitely matured since their self-titled debut and can no longer be labeled “emo pop,” but it seems they are still trying to find their voice. The new album, which took two years to produce, is a combination of two completely different sounds. The first eight tracks blend together into a big blur even after multiple listenings. Don’t get me wrong, it’s good music with catchy beats, but it’s just nothing to write home about. Solea’s primary sound is continuously crashing cymbals and rhythmic guitar that combine to create one loud wall of sound backing up pretty mundane lyrics.

However, starting with the ninth track, “Almost Innocent”, the album takes a more interesting turn. Unlike the beginning tracks, “Innocent” starts with a great melodic acoustic guitar intro later joined by Garrett Klahn’s deep haunting vocals. Even though the lyrics aren’t amazing, the sound is what really grabs you on these final tracks.

“The Same Old Stories” follows in the footsteps with a piano and drum intro reminiscent of Death Cab for Cutie. Solea seems to be toying with the idea of going more alternative than poppy, especially with the addition of synth on the newly mixed final track, “Apotheke” which was first produced on the debut album.

While not ground breaking, Finally We Are Nowhere is most definitely an album to be proud of, especially considering the turmoil the band has been through since their debut. After starting work on the album in late 2004, lead singer Garrett Kahn reportedly lost interest and walked out during recording. After a little break, Kahn and guitar player Sergie Loobkoff got back together with drummer Scott McPherson and bass Joseph Orlando to finally finish the album. Perhaps this break that Kahn took is the explanation for the two completely different sounds on the album. Whatever the case, Solea should keep up the soul-searching because it seems to be leading them somewhere instead of nowhere.