Artist - Standard Issue
Album - Hurry Up and Wait
Label - Independent
Reviewer - Robin Steeley
Standard issue is a four-piece band that originated in Portland, Oregon although their music is taking them to new places so they may not be here forever. They are a unique blend of styles that are pleasing to the ear and musical palette. They are clearly alternative rock in the vein of what is popular right now in the industry, but they are tight enough to stand out at what they do.
The CD was recorded at Opal Studios in Portland and produced by Kevin Hahn and the production while it isn’t perfect, is perfectly workable. It doesn’t over commercialize the bands simple sound, but lets it shine through itself using the dynamics and songwriting.
After the groovy slow moving intro, some of the highlight tracks for me off this offering were opening track “Mastering” which is upbeat and has a catchy chorus, as well as “Vegas” which just goes to show, what happens in Vegas should stay in Vegas! This song tells all the bands secrets in a funny contagious kind of way. I also liked the positive “Learn Your Limits”. The only thing I didn’t like was the weird piano interlude in the middle of the songs; it didn’t seem to fit in although it did seem to blend right into the next song, “Throw It Out” which made it seem more acceptable because this is their mellowest song except the poppy choruses.
Overall, I think Standard Issue has a great foundation for making good music, they are in a genre that is hugely popular right now and with their new travels, I believe the band will do what it takes to get noticed.
Standard Issue Is
Mason – Vocals
Joe - Guitar & Vocals
Eric – Bass & Vocals
Adam - Drums
