A seven year old band from Boston, comprised of three members, released their third full-length this year. After writing five songs two years ago for a split with friends Ampere, Sinaloa present Oceans of Islands, their first effort distributed by Level Plane Records. Their previous albums and splits were released on Ebullition, Clean Plate, and Waking Records, labels that boast DIY ethics and well-known acts such as Off Minor, Yaphet Kotto, and Orchid. On the interior of the CD packaging, the words "Sinaloa is a state. Everybody sings" sit above the names of the band members and their respective instruments. Brendan and Pete play guitar while Luke plays drums. There is no bassist, but Sinaloa doesn't let that hold them back. The choice to leave out a bass player stands as a memorial for their late friend, who passed away before becoming the fourth musician. Fortunately, Oceans of Islands doesn't sound like it's missing anything, as the original three man their instruments quite well.
Oceans of Islands, like Sinaloa's split with Ampere, features a lyric booklet with explanations for all of the songs. It's really nice to be able to see where a band finds its inspiration for ideas, and where these ideas originated. It gives the release a personal quality that helps you feel what the band felt when writing the songs. Topics and themes range from Hurricane Katrina aftermath to the end of human existence on earth, from youth organization in small communities to loss of family members, and from the educational system to technology robbing us of face-to-face interaction. This diverse compilation of ideas proves that Oceans of Islands is a truly thoughtful release.
Songs like "Seek Harbor" and "Row of Tops" show Sinaloa's melodic blend of punk/screamo influences and exhibit a keen intensity. The vocals are not screamed and not simply shouted; they can be found at some halfway point between singing and yelling. Sinaloa is not overly distorted or exceedingly biting. Rather, they find themselves between slightly discordant tones and harmonious guitar work. The band is straightforward and easy to appreciate. Oceans of Islands is a pleasant addition to the Level Plane roster.
See also
Split Release With Ampere
