By shelz.
Anberlin, the Florida alt rock band with absolutely, positively the best hair in music these days, is within a week of delivering their 5th studio album, Dark Is the Way, Light is the Place to the masses. The first single, “Impossible” was released about a month ago garnering moderate success that was pushed by its very fancy music video. Now there is a second single floating around, “Pray Tell” that was given exclusively to Spin, so we stole it.
“Pray Tell” is a bit of a departure from Anberlin’s rock construction. The hard pound and roll of the South American percussion is in your face, but gives the opportunity to do a little Salsa hip swivel while taking on the melancholy lyrics. It’s confusing, true but still enjoyable.
The dueling guitars add a layer to that conflict; one picks up on the upbeat drums while the other offers a wistful base to spread the lyrics over. Lead vocalist Stephen Christian, seems to be mulling over a situation with a person who doesn’t want to come clean with him. She bobs and weaves, hides in the shadows and keeps him guessing instead of being honest.
The break removes the thump, layers vocals on and provides some atmospherics to bring the pensive mood back to life, but it doesn’t last long. Before you know it, the thump is back and you find yourself looking for your dancing shoes.
“Pray Tell” is a great study in conflict, both musically and lyrically. The melody groves, the lyrics are thought provoking and the finished product is almost as dope as the crew’s hair. Almost.
Anberlin – “Pray Tell”
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