Search - Apollo Sunshine :: Katonah (Reis)

Apollo Sunshine Shines in 'Katonah,' by Jason Sobieski

Jason Charles Sobieski | Houston, Texas, U.S.A. | 03/01/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"What can I say? I heard this album several years ago, and it nearly blew my mind and revitalized my faith in modern rock. I'll be clear though; I enjoy little contemporary rock, mainstream or not. I think it lacks soul, innovation, and that little of it is unique and new. And most of the modern artists I enjoy I've discovered since the time period of hearing "Katonah," which may something about Apollo Sunshine's talent and influence.



I tend to view albums as a whole, and often judge them based upon the overall unity of the songs. Why, one must ask, did the artists put these particular songs in this exact order? Sometimes it's because they're just looking to pump out an album so they can make money and notoriety, but sometimes they actually put some thought into it. Sadly, this seems to be less of a priority in modern times. As a work of art, "Katonah" is exceptional, a jewel amongst lumps of coal. Much like "Abbey Road" has almost no track breaks, "Katonah" is largely free-flowing from one song to the next, suddenly seizing you with the extremely catchy opening track and taking you on a relentless roller coaster ride that, very effectively, takes you to soaring highs and mellow lows.



"Katonah" is unique. It is quite brilliant at times, with flowing, beautiful melody and a range of moods and styles touched upon. Technically, it is spotless and the production couldn't be better. The vocals are spot on, but not robotic in any way. An array of instrumentation is accomplished effectively, and yet it doesn't sound like the artists were trying too hard, for the music flows naturally, despite its many intricacies.



Flaws? They really aren't on this album. Perhaps some impatient listeners will not appreciate the overall experience this album provides, and it doesn't play like a greatest hits. My only thought is that perhaps it is too short, though this is really a silly thing to say. Is Joy Division's "Unknown Pleasures" 'too short?' Is "Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band?"



If you're looking for a modern rock buy that you will remember having listened to, and continue to listen to, and perhaps tell others to listen to, "Katonah" is a must-have.



Precise Rating:



9/10 turtle shells.



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My info/tastes F.Y.I.:



Age: 21.

Gender: Male.

Places I've lived: New Jersey and Houston, Texas.

Musicianship: Guitar, Bass Guitar, limited rock Drumming.

My Main Influences: The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Beach Boys, The Doors, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Jimi Hendrix, John Lennon, Metallica, Styx, Joy Division, Apollo Sunshine, Of Montreal, jazz artists, Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, N.W.A., Eminem, Jay-z, Wu-Tang Clan, Lil' Wayne, Michael Jackson, Mozart, Bach, Beethoven."