Pinback: Autumn of the Seraphs

While not as catchy as Summer in Abaddon, it still has all the good qualities of a Pinback album. A few upbeat songs mingled with some laid back stuff equals a well balanced release. Definitely recommended.

Satisfying though not alltogether compelling fourth disc from the intelligent popsters finds Crow and company tightening their signature quirk-rock for even more upbeat accessibility, sometimes at the expense of more intricate melodic work.

While I'm not terribly familar with Pinback's earlier work, hearing two tracks from "Autumn of the Seraphs" on college radio was enough to make me purchase the record. I bought the record on vinyl so I can't speak for the sound quality of the CD, but the succinct arrangements of each song really come through. It's hard to describe the overall sound of the record, but let's just say that the intricate bass and guitar parts sound like they're being performed right in your home. I'd call it a "dry" mix, where every note is present as opposed to being buried amidst studio production. I've never been one to read too much into song titles, so I won't go into that realm. Rather, I tend to focus on the overall feel of a record, and this record has an even feel, with no dud tracks, and is truly an "album" experience instead of muddling through tracks to get to a favorite. If you're not familiar with Pinback I highly recommend this disc. It's hard to imagine anyone not enjoying it, and for audiophiles "Autumn of the Seraphs" is a true test of your home stereo system.

Rob & Zach are in a league of their own. Creating lyrically interesting and intricately layered music... delivering album after album of mind blowing prog "math" pop rock. Can ya tell I like them? They have NEVER disappointed me with any of their releases. While there music is moody, sometimes even melodramatic... it is NOT depressing, it just makes you FEEL. Rob has the most beautiful, incomparable voice and Zach's beatific backing seamlessly blends - these men were meant to work together. Their unique transitions and sick riffs kill. Everything they do is ground breaking and unrivaled. The standout tracks on Autumn of the Seraphs (which has already made my hall of fame) are: the bittersweet "Bouquet", the defiant "Torch", the jubilant "Blue Harvest" and the hard charging "From Nothing to Nowhere". Amazing job guys - Pinback is & has been one of my favorite bands of all time.