Release Date: (2003)
Label: Independent
Producer:

December  Hotel 
Overall Rating:  +++-

(Some Trust)

In less than a year, The Fray has  reached the top of  Denver's music scene. This Ep is a big reason for that, and also the band's constant display of great live shows.  Having just recently been signed to Epic Records.  Things are looking on the up and up for this great new act.  This is not an album to get people dancing but is perhaps better reserved for quiet contemplation in a bedroom.  It is certainly mood music that's for sure.  This is an album of remarkable depth, especially when one considers the youthful ages of the band members.

"Vienna" one of the many standout tracks has a great instantly memorable piano riff.  This was the track that first connected with me when I saw the band live in person.  It's such a beautiful song that deserves to be played all over the radio.  "Oceans Away" is a very well written ,with a very catchy melody.  I like the the constant changes in-tempo through out the song. "Unsaid" shifts gears a bit, with its acoustic, folky shuffle.  It's a beautifully melodic song, one that will be the soundtrack to a thousand turbulent relationships. If you're anything like me you will play this one over and over, maybe thinking about a lost love.

This album delivers everything you could hope for.  Heartfelt vocals from  the likes of Isaac Slade and Joe King.  Overpowering melodies that capture  everyman's melancholy. The Fray recalls others a tad too closely at times, but the influences are much wider than most will think upon listen. It's an exciting time to be involved with the Fray Camp.  These guys are something special that hopefully will not get lost in the shuffle.

~ Anthony P. Hanna