Intro Signal - Sign

Intro Signal

Sign
self-released; 2015

3.5 out of 5

By Andrew Westberry

Alternative rock band Intro Signal produced their first full length Sign in August of this year, marking the beginning of a promising career and indicating the recognition of a surefire métier by the band members. Quick, pulsing electronic synthesizers commence the album in “Someday Soon” which soon transitions into a traditional rock band sound, complete with drums, guitars and continuing synths.

The dark, reverb-heavy sound continues through “Good” but “Dog Food” features more of an unprocessed sound that focuses more on raw, acoustic tones, melodic harmonies from voices and chord-shifting bass lines. The avant-garde is a theme running through the entire album, making itself evident in the intro of “It’s Always Ok,” as well as the ever-changing chords and unconventional riffs permeating the record.

Slowing down the energy in “On a Monday,” Roscoe explores the upper limits of his voice in extended falsetto segments. This variation brings extra diversity to the band’s sound, making it easier for the listener to maintain an awareness of the music as a whole. The record picks back up in “Nice Shoes,”,the most piano-laden song on the album.

Rock organ chords, piano riffs and echoing vocals bring necessary life to “So Cold” and “When You Sleep,” which otherwise could feel like reruns of earlier songs on the album. These small, yet significant alterations make the album extremely impactful, as Intro Signal displays its capability of forming songs around a common atmosphere without descending into repetition or unintentional musical déjà vu.

These slight shifts in sound continue until “Adjectives” draws the album to a close. The simplest and catchiest song on the record, the classic chord progressions and sunny lyrics combine in a masterful exposition of musical skill. And as a whole, the album Sign is genuinely a work of art that exposes more meaning and more enjoyment with every listen and every listener.

Become A Fan

Tweet