Volcano, I’m Still Excited!!

Polyvinyl Records

Every…

Volcano, I’m Still Excited!!

Polyvinyl Records

Every now and then, a band comes along with something brand new to offer to the music scene, something that is fresh and different. Volcano, I’m Still Excited!! is a band made up of three guys from New York, and their self-titled album is all that, and more.

The eclectic album includes songs such as the mostly a cappella “Trunk of My Car” which features the three guys of Volcano singing in a round. The lyrics are simple, but the harmonies are insanely interesting. Add to that a bass drum beat sneaking into the song and a guitar, the sound is shockingly unique.

Unlike the somewhat simple “Trunk of My Car,” “In Green” is a fusion of several different sounds. It is a mix between pop and rock, with lead singer Mark Duplass’ voice giving the song a punk feel. The organ is prevalent in the song, as it is in many of the tracks.

At first, you wonder if the organ works with the song or goes against it. But after a listen, it is easy to realize that if the organ were not present, most of the songs would be bland with their simple drumbeats and guitar chords.

“Echo Park” is simply a piano solo, which is soothing and sweet. It has feeling behind it that is hauntingly perfect. The track is only a minute and six seconds long, but it is the perfect interlude between songs.

“Byron’s 24th Christmas” features a light piano, just as “Echo Park” does, but there are lyrics that Duplass sings softly, giving the song a somber feeling. There are disturbing lyrics such as “falling forward, face crashing into the car,” that have a feeling of tragedy. The song also features the Orchestra at the City College of New York, conducted by Duplass.

Volcano, I’m Still Excited!! is a diverse album. At one moment you hear the upbeat track “In the Green,” and then listen to “Byron’s 24th Christmas.” But either way, they all seem to work together, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed after you listen to the album.