The Volcano Diary
Genre: Americana/alt-rock/Electroacoustic
Location: Seattle, Washington
Label: Unsigned
Sounds like:Â Sia, Mollie’s Revenge
Website:Â http://www.thevolcanodiary.com/
Local Seattle Band The Volcano Diary released it’s debut self-titled album in late 2010. It was produced by Steve Fisk, (Nirvana, The Posies) so when a press manager contacted me to review their album I was like, What? REALLY!? Hooray! Maybe they were looking for indie blogger cred? I don’t know. But I do know it was a pleasure to listen to this album.
A remarkable mix of alternative rock with a hint of country and an unexpected bit of blues Alicia Dara’s haunting and seductive voice is both memorable and unique. In a time when sampling and various other technological gimmicks fill the radio waves, The Volcano Diary is a band, rather than a computer, filled with honestly talented musicians.
The nine tracks are a satisfying schism of somber and exciting. This album feels like a first album in that it seems to be the beginning of something that is fresh and can only get better from here on out, sparking an interest in what will follow. That being said, the lyrics in some tracks tend to sound like that of a band that is still getting it’s bearings. I was looking to be moved a little more by the lyrics, but Dara’s voice carries the words in a way that is thrilling and unexpected-so it is easily forgiven .
I probably wouldn’t take this album to the gym but it’s been my night driving staple and seems to be just the thing when the time comes to relax to a calm playlist. So if you like female vocalists and easy-listening, I would recommend The Volcano Diary.
“Volcano” by the Volcano Diary:
“Cloud Cover” by The Volcano Diary: Â
They have been playing various shows around the Northwest, many of them in bar and taverns, but they are playing a free all ages show on Monday May 30th at the Northwest Folklife Festival! I know many of you will be in attendance so check them out, show them some love!
Cheers!
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