ALBUM REVIEW: The Greetings - S.O.L.
**This review originally appeared in our November print issue.**
Photo by Jarron Childs
“Upon the introduction of the vocals, I found myself trying to relate the gruff, raspy tone to another artist, but I really couldn’t — they were that in and of itself.”
I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect upon pressing play on The Greetings’ upcoming album S.O.L. I had stumbled across the trio online, gave one of their songs a listen and was instantly sold. In my eyes, their sound brings something new and refreshing to the local music scene. But like I said, that was after listening to just one song. As I sat down with the recordings of their nine-track debut album, I was pretty much an open book.
The opening track, “Laps,” was pleasantly surprising, and instantly struck me as super crisp and clean, perfected even. The automatic dive into solid guitar and drum riffs boasted a Sublime or Red Hot Chili Peppers vibe. Upon the introduction of the vocals, I found myself trying to relate the gruff, raspy tone to another artist, but I really couldn’t — they were that in and of itself.
Things get a little more folky in the second track, without straying too far from the record’s start. The boppy pace keeps things moving along swiftly in the storyline, before the track concludes with a sweet harmonizing of the backing vocals.
As the relatable storyline progresses in each song and the lyrics reveal more emotion, the lead vocals become more pronounced and raspier, helping to sell the plot that much more. Several of the songs explore themes of moving on, while others speak of feeling stuck and the downsides of love.
The words in “Eagle Street” especially caught my attention, as they sported a witty idealization of fate. “You want to ruin my life? I hope you get to it faster,” is the line that first hooked my brain. We also get to hear a strong representation of the lead’s ability to weave in and out of a softer voice versus the husky sound that uniquely defines the group.
“Hallelujah” gave me a brief “a-ha” moment, with a vocal style similar to Ryan Adams in his harder-hitting songs. But just as soon as I made the connection, The Greetings’ distinctiveness just as quickly overrode it. Again, they really pave a road of their own.
Each song is short and sweet, almost teasing the listener. Most clock in just under three minutes. Though, we do get an extra taste of a “Roadrunner 1” with the track that follows it, “Roadrunner 2.” The follow-up definitely has a more upbeat, sing-songy vibe, making it feel like a different chapter of the same story that has suddenly developed a different outlook on a bleak situation.
The final track, “Scared Of Love,” appears striking as the track that wraps up the record, but I don’t like to judge a book by its cover. Instantaneously, the song throws all initial expectations out the window, with its energetic movement that I can’t help but assume would be a real hoot to experience live.
Honestly, S.O.L. in its entirety would breathe life into a crowd, offering no dull moments, even in the more serene tracks. I was pleasantly surprised by The Greetings’ debut album, but not too surprised – I had a good feeling based on my brief initial exploration. Simply put, S.O.L. is a bet you’ll want to take.
The Greetings released their first full length album, S.O.L., on November 1. Listen to it on all major streaming platforms.
