Bellwether

Here is an exercise in alterna-sounding adolescent rock. Labeled as "within the post-math/emo/hard core stratosphere," i can't hear you is nine tracks of adolescent angst with a predictable sound.\nAdopting the classic four-piece setup, bellwether features the talents of dual guitars and vocals, a bassist and drummer. Tried and true, bellwether's use of a four-piece is an essential element of realistic rock, the type of music that has youthful truth and emotion.\nThe album emits a rawness in its music. What i can't hear you lacks is a unique style. Bellwether plays solid, original songs yet lacks innovation. \nDo not be mistaken, bellwether carries out its music with energy and precision. The guitar and drum work is complete and fitting. The vocals tell the story of a frustrated late teens-early 20s boy's struggles with relationships and self-realization. Every element of the band conveys this.\nPerhaps that is what is striking about the album. It fits so perfectly with the frustrating and dismal side of adolescent life no one wants to be reminded of. It is the album all teenage rock fans had playing in their heads when they decided their life sucked.\nThere are no stand out tracks, rather i can't hear you flows between every quiet progression and distorted chorus. Including the occasional raspy scream from the lead singer, the album sounds like one 38-minute, always-changing song.\nAlthough unremarkable, i can't hear you is worth a listen. Recorded at Bloomington-based Farm Fresh Studios, bellwether delivers its truth with local roots. \n"I can't understand," a line in the song "squid," sums up the feeling of the CD. Bellwether plays to disillusion and confusion with every sound.