From romantic misunderstandings to spiritual misgivings, the rock 'n' roll and punk melodies of utris' third album, "The Long Walk Home," recounts the pivotal moments in a boy's maturation into a man.
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Each song articulates a different aspect of the difficulties of becoming a man in the modern world, describing an incredible journey "home." But these four men may already be there.
Although the theme of the album is derived from the hardships of growing up, the songs themselves are uniquely pleasant.
utris clearly prides itself on its individual sound, but the album's intro does little justice to the band's style. Over-the-top and loud, it gives the false impression that "The Long Walk Home" is nothing more than another piece of in-your-face entertainment. This is an unnecessary image for the young rockers.
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Fortunately, utris redeems itself as the album continues. Perhaps the best song on the album is "Some Gurls." Rather than sounding downcast, the percussion and melody are infectious.
Other songs feature inlets of piano music and even chirping crickets, making every three minutes chime with a new kind of enjoyment.
"The Long Walk Home" combines the same musical sensibilities employed by great bands of the past. The vocals are reminiscent of Bad Company and the melodies are like that of SpaceHog, but the style is utris' alone.
The album features delightful variations in instruments, from bongo drums to voice synthesizers. The first song on the album even tries new effects with volume and speaker variations. The fresh combination of sounds might surprise at first, but these wacky interludes are entirely purposeful. They showcase utris' distinct sound.
The album cover features a simple picture of a Spanish city bus, which is perhaps reminiscent of utris' metaphorical journey. This album may be the home these men were searching for, but it doesn't have to be the end of their journey.
In this album, on its cover and by the number of songs, there is still an overwhelming essence of youth, and with that, untapped potential.
On the inside flap of the "Long Walk Home" CD case is a quote from one of the band's songs. "So you better watch yourself and wash your self and talk yourself into what carefully made plans can and will fall through. When all these days have drawn to a close turn around, look and see, the road that you chose."
That is a great lesson for the listener, but here is an even better one for the creators: Guys, stop looking behind you. Keep your vision firmly focused on what lies ahead, and see that amazing talent soar.
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