Somewhere between dark and optimistic, Classic Case's latest album Losing at Life is a moody experiment, exploring the gray area between hard rock/grunge and alternative. At the same time it voices the frustration of a band trying to find its footing in mainstream rock.
The band has two vocalists, Jared Draughon and Josh Moore, who combine to create a unique sound and generate charismatic interplays. Neither impresses in a big way, but the guitars, with their unique effects and arrhythmic melodic sequences, as well as the occasional groovy bass line, make for intriguing listening.
The album begins with guitar-oriented, heavily distorted songs such as "Into the Nightmare" and "Fatal Phrase". The lack of memorable or repetitive melodies here fails to make a mark on the listener. However, Classic Case really shines with songs such as the title track "Losing at Life" and "Living in a Dream", where the band has a more 'alternative' feel. These songs are better structured -- the vocal melodies better suit the chord progression. As the album progresses, the songs seem to find a happier middle ground without ever losing spontaneity or instrumental creativity.
