Wednesday, February 11, 2009

The Fray Recreates Signature Sound | The Fray 'The Fray' CD Review


Back in 2005, Colorado finally earned its mark in current mainstream music with help of Alternative Rock band, The Fray. The four piece piano laced group released their debut single, “Over My Head (Cable Car),” which managed to reach number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Continuing with their success, The Fray released “How To Save A Life,” which became an even bigger hit with some thanks to ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy and a load of other shows playing it. ‘Life’ managed to peak at number 3 on the Hot 100, allowing The Fray to prove they were definitely here to stay.

Nearly four years after the release of the two times platinum album, How To Save A Life, The Fray returned back onto the scene with new music. Once again, ABC adopted the bands lead single for promotion of the fifth season of Lost. “You Found Me,” became the groups third top 10 single (peaking at number 7) on the Hot 100 in early 2009.

On their self titled, sophomore release, The Fray continues with their signature Pop Rock, piano driven tunes. Evidently becoming the distinct sound they go for on the entire album. Every song from the album could certainly do well at Adult Contemporary radio; Even though vocal range isn’t the strong point of lead singer, Isaac Slade; he manages to convey the emotion filled tracks exceptionally well. The realistic lyrical content is definitely a driving point for The Fray’s music and their ability to touch the lives of their listeners.

Standout album cuts including “Absolute,” and “Syndicate,” could easily become future successful singles for The Fray. Both Feature captivating instrumentals and radio pleasant vocals similar to their past high charting singles. “Absolute” questions, “Is this all we get to be absolute? Quiet but I’m sure there is something here, tell me everything cause I want to hear.” While the bittersweet tune “Syndicate” features Slade crooning, “Baby close your eyes, don’t open till the morning light, don’t ever forget, we haven't lost it all yet.”

Although The Fray, is only a ten track CD, it features multiple unique songs, including the must hear grief filled, “Enough For Now.”

The Fray seems to have picked the perfect time to jump back into the music scene. With helpful promotion from ABC, and committed fans, The Fray is sure to become another hit album for the band. By continuing the sound they’re known for, their sophomore album will easily maintain loyal fans, while attracting new ones, as well. Not to mention since The Fray holds the top two iTunes Top Albums charting positions, their sophomore album will without doubt top How To Save A Life’s Billboard 200 peak of 14.

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