Silent Miles "Different Roads"
Silent Miles is twinkly emo goodness, the brainchild of singer, pianist & guitar player Christian Lucy also featuring, Ryan Collenburg on bass, Kona Ossana on drums, Parker Andrezzi on trumpet and backing vocals by Juli Wills. Their debut EP ‘Different Roads’ takes you through the stages of self awareness when falling out of love. It's incredibly sad and at the same time beautifully elegant. A triumphant sound very much like witnessing the sun rise after your worst night.
Christian's vocals are gentle and have a comforting quality, ranging from near whispers to strong melodic leaps to audible screams. It is the sound of pain transforming into courage. The lyrics flow throughout the album very much like the “stages of grief”; depression & loss, feeling like you're not good enough and never were, despondence, memories of the good times, regret, relief and ultimately moving on with acceptance.
Different Roads features 3 instrumental tracks that flow seamlessly in the tracklisting. This genre can be notorious for 'less is more' approach in the rhythm section (think Dashboard Confessional, Foxing) but Silent Miles offers a more calculated induction, leaning into math rock/punk influence rather than indie/minimalist. I was highly impressed by how enraptured the bass playing is throughout. The trumpet's graceful addition really sets the mood; coupled with the deliberately active rhythm section and melodic piano you're left with a natural sounding ensemble that earns the attention of even the most critical listener.
The album progresses thoughtfully acting as a slow sailing voyage away from the past. Understanding the realization of someone you once loved deeply becoming a stranger over time and how that translates into the perspective of everyday life. The change is very real and makes you wonder what the meaning of the relationship even is/was. Everything for a reason, a season or a lifetime; the journey continues just as the name ‘Different Roads’ entails. This album will make you visualize every person you've ever loved.
I'd love to see some music videos from these guys in the future. Keep an eye on these talented dudes! Check out Different Roads here and follow their Facebook for upcoming show announcements (& this beautiful rendition of Parting School).
For Fans of: American Football + This Town Needs Guns
Fave tracks: Obliviate, Funeral Flowers