Customer Reviews

You Can't Take It With You

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As Tall As Lions' album called You Can't Take It With You is an unusual collection of songs, defying easy categorization. The overall vibe is an atmospheric melange of prog-rock, jazz, funk and bits of other styles. There are a lot of gentle, unobtrusive moments such as the swirl of synths, bass and muted trumpet and that opens the fifth track, "Duermete." After the intro, guitars gradually enter and then drums. The slow build of the song is vaguely reminiscent of Sigur Ros' music, a comparison strengthened by some of the lead vocalists' penchant for falsetto singing. (They alternate lead vocals on different songs.) ATAL also frequently use a lush harmonic mesh of backing vocals, though, something that makes their sound more distinctive. Along with the melodies, I like the ambient interludes such as an electronic meditation that closes out "Lost My Mind" and the quiet yet cathedral-big instrumental segment that segues into "In Case Of Rapture," a big contrast since "Rapture" turns out to be the album's most rockin' cut. Actually, I shouldn't give the impression that the CD is all atmospherics, as the band does lay down some heavier sounds elsewhere too, as on "Is This Tomorrow?" But ultimately it's the softer passages I found most memorable, especially the songs "Sleepyhead" and "Lost My Mind." The latter tune is especially haunting, as with PJ Harvey or Thom Yorke in their more introspective moods.

I happened to catch these guys as an opening act for Minus the Bear at a small club. They came on for their set announcing that their lead singer was absent but nonetheless they would play their set without him. Despite an awful mix and a cramped stage, they seemed to be going through some interesting chord work and signature times. Plus they were clearly committed that the show must go on. I though "here's a band with the balls to put it out there, so at least they deserve a proper listen." I picked up a copy of "You Can't Take It with You" the next day. I was more than pleasantly surprised, and sadly wishing that I had seen their complete entourage the previous night. "You Can't Take It With You" is a real stunner. From the drum pounding opener "Circles" to the R&B tinges of the title track to the wicked timing of "Duermete", Danny Nigro and friends perform with an easiness that belies their years. Nigro seems to be channeling the ghost of Jeff Buckley with his stratospheric falsetto. He's a quietly chrasmatic front man that can wisp the listener along with out shouting or bombast. Their are no duds to be found. I echo all the thoughts of other reviewers that ATAL has a bright future. And created a bright spot in an otherwise old and jaded reviewer. May they shine brightly.

ATAL's new album, "You Can't Take it with You" is a phenomenal album. Their sound has evolved so much since "Into the Flood". The use of wind instruments has increased my love for them; the trumpet being my favorite. The vocal melodies never cease to impress. ATAL has a unique signature to their music, its a very rare genre to find in the southwest, so it's definitely one of my favorite bands. These guys are great. I suggest seeing them live as well, because nothing beats live performances.

As Tall As Lions has done it again. Their self-titled still remains my favorite album of all time, but YCTIWY is still fantastic in every way. It kicks off with "Circles", which starts as a hard hitting, syncopated, almost math rock-ish song, but transforms as soon as the swirling guitar and vocalist Dan Nigro's amazing voice comes in. Other great tracks to note are Go Easy, Duermete, In Case of Rapture, and well, there really isn't a bad song on this disc. It's a shame these guys are breaking up so show your support of a great band and buy this amazing CD!

Putting more soul in one album than many artists put in every album they own, As Tall as Lions are maturing as musicians. The album may disappoint fans of the self titled album, as it loses some of the unique sound (which to this day, I can't adequately explain), but in return, we find a new sound takes its place, which is as beautiful and captivating as before. Ironically, the songs that sound the most like the last album (excepting In Case of Rapture) tend to be the weaker songs in the album, such as Go Easy. The true gems of the album beautifully exploit this new sound, and when needed, show everything from explosive energy to beautifully executed restraint.

Circles, of course, starts the album out with a bang, being an excellent choice of a single. Other key songs include You Can't Take it with You, in which the song itself is an incredibly neat idea, but doesn't seem to go anywhere towards the end. In Case of Rapture sounds like it could have fit in well with the last album, and is an excellent song with no real weaknesses. Lost My Mind is positively gorgeous, if you have the patience for it.

The problem with this album is that it isn't instantly accessible. It takes a while to understand its ins and outs, but once you get to understanding the songs, they are well worth discovering. It just might take a few tries.

I have been following As Tall As Lions since high school, and have been nothing but excited when they announce a release of a new album. This one tops them all. A mix between electric sounds, beats, rhythm, and vocals makes my arms get goosebumps. 'Go Easy' is my all time favorite song on this album. It literally makes me want to cry (in a good way)! The lyrics to this album are poetry, and I think speak to everyone in a different way when they experience each song. This album took a lot of risks in its approach to contemporary indie rock, and made it new and innovative. I will never get sick of this album, like I said one of my favorites of all time.

This album is probably one of their bests! You can definitely tell how much this band has grown compared to their first albums (which were still equally awesome!) Musically, lyrically, and energetically. This band captures you and takes you to a better place. Not only is this band amazing on the record, they are absolutely breath taking live. My favorite songs on this album would definitely have to be Love Love Love, and In Case of Rapture. The whole band is amazing to listen to and watch, not only do I recommend this album, I recommend their past albums and their albums to come. This band will never stop progressing, there is too much talent to not progress. This CD is definitely worth the buy.

As Tall As Lions' 2009 offering, You Can't Take It With You, is a wonderfully crafted album. As a listener, I always felt that the band's actual musical prowess and technical abilities were held back in the studio. However, this certainly is not the case with their 2009 release. The album has a wonderful flow to it- every track is beautifully textured and tastefully composed. The vocal harmonies are rich and the musicianship is top notch. Album highlights include the mesmerizing "In Case of Rapture" which features soaring vocals, beautiful guitar work, and intricate drum rhythms reminiscent of John Theodore. If you're a fan of any of their previous work or are looking for an album full of variety, emotion, and technical proficiency, buy this right away.

Brilliant is the word to define the newest album from As Tall as Lions. Brilliant album cover. Brilliant sounds. Brilliant vocals. Perfect for going to sleep because this album is just that soothing. The single is "Circles," but every single song is just as worthy as being a single. As Tall as Lions is one of the best bands to come out of Long Island and this album is definitely proof of it!

As Tall As Lions have done it again. They've crafted am amazing album that took me by surprise. They are constatly showing their talent and originality. The best tracks on the album would be In Case of Rapture, Go easy, sixes and sevens, and Duermete. In Case of Rapture is insanely catchy, you will be stuck in your head forever. Go easy is old school ATAL and it is awesome. The song starts off on the slower side, but builds up and becomes an amazing, emotional track. Sixes and Sevens is different, but good. It's catchy beat and great three way harmonies show this band still have some tricks up their sleeves. The albums heartbreaking song is Duermete. It is such a sad, emotional song wit great lyrics. In conclusion, this is a great album and any fan, or newcomer, will enjoy it.