Southern California rock/alt band Modern Maps have released their debut label album hope you’re happy. via Rise Records. The full-length LP showcases what the band is all about, and encapsulates both their talents as artist and as writers. Music that slightly differs from the norm, the band joins the ranks of bands like Hands Like Houses and Silverstein as they wiggle in a bit of just pure untainted alternative rock that seems to fit so well within the more heavier scene. This is a band that will offer something appealing to many listeners, and their new album shows that potential.
SEE ALSO: Musical Cartography: Modern Maps on ‘hope you’re happy’
The album itself has many high points. From the ambient feeling the song “Reflective Glass” gives to the driving force that is the song “Your Fault” the band is able to display fully some of the diverse talents they posses. It shows glimpses of the bands untapped potential, and also makes a clear statement of what the band it about. Granted, sometimes the album seemed to drag. The songs would sometimes come across as hollow, but those flaws become irrelevant by the fact that the band is offering something a little different.
The band’s sound in all is something that can hit home with a lot of people. It’s safe, but sort of in a good way. The rhythms are always catchy and the choruses will make people wanna sing along . Even I’m not fully sure what it is, but something about this album makes me wanna keep listening. It also captures listeners and makes you wanna see what the band is going to do next. If this was their debut album I’m sure that with some time and some more experience that this band will soon become one of the most solid rock bands in the scene. Listeners should definitely give the album a listen, and also keep an eye out to see what Modern Maps does next.
