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5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Fair- Disappearing World [crobsession.tumblr.com], February 10, 2010
If you know or are a fan of bands such as Anberlin, The Almost, Demon Hunter, Emery, Jonezetta, or TFK, then you're familiar with some of Aaron Sprinkle's work... and that's just to name a few bands that he's worked with. He's best known for being a record producer for Tooth & Nail and lead singer of a band called Fair. While I could fill an entire page of his other accomplishments, I'm going to stick with summarizing my thoughts on Fair's sophomore record, Disappearing World.
For Tooth & Nail and a lot of other people, this album is a big deal. While we have other bands that Sprinkle has produced albums for, we don't get to hear too much straight from the big man himself. I expected this album to be something of an epic. Sprinkle said that he didn't regret a single moment on the album, so for someone with such good taste to say that really caught my attention. It may have taken me a few listens to fully understand it, but I think it exceeds my expectations, and will for plenty of others as well.
The title track opens the album, and from there you can kind of tell where things are going. The music contains an instantly recognizable pop rock/alternative sound, but reaches well above those in the same genre. Sprinkle's familiar yet unique voice and his catchy lyricism give the album some of its character. He manages to capture the sound of some of the older music that has influenced him, as was his goal. Just recently, someone I know who was unacquainted with Fair asked me if I was listening to The Beatles. The calm but upbeat attitude that relies heavily on the keys is the kind of thing that makes the perfect soundtrack for clear, sunny days. To put it plainly, Fair is fair, and very enjoyable.
There are so many moments in the song "Disappearing World" that you can tell are destined to be remembered- a peaceful intro, a catchy chorus, an honest bridge, a talented guitar solo. It contains the kind of things that make a fantastic single. "One Last Time" is one of the most outstanding songs on the album. It makes for a great pop tune that you just know you'll find yourself humming later, not to mention the genius lyrics. "Take Some Risks" plays the role of the first ballad on the album, and comes across successful. It has a string section, blues-y guitars,and expert vocals, which, oddly, make for a great ballad. "The Escape Artist" and "It's Doubtful" are both fun tracks, with fantastic choruses and beats that'll have you subconsciously tapping your feet, while keeping things on the melodic side. The latter has great lyrics, singing "If I'm happy, there's a good chance I'm lying through my teeth/ Cause without You, it's doubtful/ And it would take a miracle I know/ to set this straight, and give back the hours that I stole/ Cause without You, it's doubtful," and also includes one more outstanding guitar solo.
There's a bittersweet moment on the album's eighth track, "The Worst of Your Wear." Aaron Marsh of Copeland-whose albums Sprinkle produced-does guest vocals. This would be an entirely happy moment had the band not broken up in October. But it makes the track all the more special. It even sounds like a Copeland song.
An emotional but well-done track closes out the album, leaving the listener with the feeling you get after listening to a near-perfect record. Even though there are only ten tracks, these are Aaron Sprinkle's best. This is a very special treat that only comes once in a while, so get it while it's hot.
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2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful follow up album, February 16, 2010
Three and a half years is quite a while to be waiting for a new release, especially when that release is coming from the exceptionally talented Fair. However, its not hard to understand why this album took so long to hit shelves and our ears. Aaron Sprinkle has been plenty busy producing acts such as, Emery, The Almost, and Copeland (just to name a few), all while managing to write/record music of his own.
With such a large gap between Fair's first album, and this one, I wasn't too sure what musical direction the band was going to choose. Upon my first listen of "Disappearing World", I was slightly confused, disappointed even. My initial thought was, "Is this still the same Fair I fell in love with?" Thankfully, that question was shattered to pieces by the time I reached the end of track 2, "Wayside." Fair was back and better than ever. Soaring melodies delivered via Aaron's unique voice reminded me why I loved this group so much. With all worries officially set aside, I could sit back in peace and enjoy (surely) one of the best albums to be released in 2010.
The classic Fair trademarks are all still here. Vocals done by Aaron, complete with 2, even 3 part harmonies done by the man himself. This album is filled with wonderful guitar playing, tasteful drumming, beautiful orchestral arrangements, the occasional piano part, and a nice slice of (improved) bass playing to pull the whole thing together. The guitar tones on this album are much more complex and experimental (in an awesome way) versus Fair's previous release. Not to mention the awesome throwback guitar solo on "Take Some Risks" which is completely reminiscent of something you'd hear off a Pink Floyd album. The drumming once again keeps the groove strong without over complicating parts. And the bassist brings his parts to the spotlight much more this time around. All in all, every member has perfected their parts and even improved on them in a noticeable way.
The production value is yet again top notch. Yet another benefit of having Aaron Sprinkle as the front man and producer of this band. Not much more needs to be said about that.
Lyrically, this album aims far above The Best Worst Case Scenario. The lyrics are not only thought provoking, but they are entirely catchy as well. Lines such as, "If I'm happy, there's a good chance I'm lying through my teeth" are sure to keep you coming back time and time again.
Bottom line, if you consider yourself a "music lover", there is no way you won't enjoy this album. This is straight forward good music. Free of fads and cliches, as honest as it gets. That is what will keep this album in constant rotation for years to come. This music is perfect for basically every occasion. I cannot say enough good things about this album.
The best worst case scenario was one of my personal favorite for 06' and I strongly believe this album lives up to its expectations.
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4.0 out of 5 stars
Reminiscent of a male vocal lead Eisley, March 10, 2010
A beautifully arranged series of dynamics and ethereal devices incorporated with poetic lyrics and smooth vocals...that's what you get from the seasoned ear of Aaron Sprinkle when he comes together in Tooth and Nail's Fair. Only their second release as a band, it is hardly the amateur work of a sophomore band. From the quicker pop riffs of "One Last Time" to the mellow percussion and instrumental driven "Take Some Risks", Disappearing World is a thoroughly enjoyable album.
Vaguely reminiscent of a male vocal lead Eisley, Disappearing World has a broad variety of style incorporated into what could be best described as well produced indie rock. It is amazing how the simplicity of the sound has been so well maintained, keeping the album both intimate and powerful. On the second half of the album, it develops into a strong guitar and key driven ballad; featuring a contribution by Aaron Marsh of Copeland on "The Worst of Your Wear". Disappearing World closes with an intimate song with piano accompaniment called "Anymore" that develops with drums and guitar to end the album with style. You can check out the album on the band's MySpace.
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