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Versus The World -

Homesick/Roadsick

by Daniel King - 21 June 2015

Website: www.versustheworld.com

 

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Available: 22 June 2015

Versus The World have some pedigree in the world of music. Featuring members of bands like The Ataris and Lagwagon, it is something of a shock that these guys haven't made a bigger name for themselves yet, although a nice chunk of time on the customary 'hiatus' probably didn't help. They will now be hoping that their latest release, Homesick/Roadsick, gives them the boost that they must so desperately crave.

 

Initial thoughts on the album are positive, it's catchy and punchy throughout. Though throughout the first listen there was a nagging doubt, something I couldn't put my finger on that was ruining my enjoyment of the album. It was only after a few listens that it struck me what the problem is - throughout the album, but mainly during opening tracks The Santa Margarita and The Black Ocean, there are a lot of similarities to Rise Against, as if they had written some of the album and discarded it before recording. 

 

Whilst this is a common theme through the album, it's not a deal breaker and tracks as early in the album as A Storm Like Me have a unique 'Versus The World' signature. The track comes with clever vocals and a nice flow and things are starting to sound fresh already.

For me, the highlight of the album comes in the form of Sight For Sore Eyes, just edging out A Brooklyn Rooftop. Both tracks provide inspiring lyrics and a solid musical backing, but Sight For Sore Eyes just has a better flow to it and feels more like a song you could belt out at the top of your lungs on the way home from a shitty day at work.

 

The rest of the album is pretty solid, with a good variation of powerful vocals and riffy guitars. Detox/Retox coming with one of the catchiest choruses and Our Song closing the album with a pacier track, probably aimed at their female fans.

 

So, will this album be enough to kick them on to stardom? Maybe not. It's probably just not original enough. Will it win them new fans and be a valuable addition to your record collection? Undoubtedly. It won't win any awards this year, but it's a good, solid album and well worth your time.

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