Hailing from upstate New York, Underwater Tiger’s debut effort ‘Where Miles Become Meaning’ proves to be concise collection of harmonic alt-rock songs which at times doesn’t entirely show the bands originality. From the opening title track intertwining vocal lines and 3 part harmonies are showcased in a strong light, something that remains intact throughout. Musically the band have subtle edge yet as the record progresses Underwater Tiger show they have variation in their arsenal.

‘Bones’ is an atmosphetic, heartfelt number that could easily be misheard for an All Time Low ballad number. The same goes for ‘The In-Between,’ whilst the emotion is there, the bands ideas seem to fall a little flat.

Nevertheless the bands livelier moments; ‘Just Go’, ‘Oh So Surreal’ and ‘Treading Days’ take advantage of the bands harmonies and incorporate favourable soaring choruses which are warming and pulled off well. In addition the bands layered guitars add depth to what could be considered as typical pop-rock.

Although the bands polished sound and strong songwriting manages to keep your attention throughout, it’s difficult to pick an outstanding track as the final product struggles to leave a lasting impression. From start to finish you can’t help but feel the band are subtly trying to hard to sound like their influences; bands like Yellowcard, Something Corporate, Death Cab For Cutie. Because you’re left feeling strangely satisfied but empty as ‘Where Miles Become Meaning’ is a bold, somewhat ambitious debut yet doesn’t entirely rely on the bands original ideas.

3/5

‘Where Miles Become Meaning’ by Underwater Tiger is available now.

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Words by Sean Reid