Closure in Moscow - First Temple

[Drew Beringer]

Closure In Moscow – First Temple
Release Date: May 5, 2009
Record Label: Equal Vision

Everyone has a type. Whether it’s a type of food (Chinese) or a type of the opposite sex (brunette), everyone has specific criteria. Equal Vision has a specific type of band. You know, the kind that incorporates melody and aggression into somewhat technical music. Damiera, Circa Survive, early Coheed and Cambria, and the list continues with Closure In Moscow.

The Australian quintet is crisp; releasing melody at a quick pace. The band rarely takes their foot off the gas pedal, as opening tracks “Kissing Cousins” and “Reindeer Age” feature riffing that needles in and out, knitting tightly with Chris De Cinque’s high tenor. In fact, it’s fairly obvious that De Cinque patterns his vocals similar to Cedric Bixler of The Mars Volta. Not that it’s a bad thing, as his voice soars throughout each track.

“Sweet#hart” cuts like a buzzsaw, as De Cinque’s vocals mesh nicely with the needling riffs that come from guitarists Mansur Zennelli and Michael Barrett. “Vanguard” brings the intensity throughout, as De Cinque’s vocals roar right through while Zennelli and Barrett dictate the pace. But Closure In Moscow isn’t all about fast and heavy, as First Temple gets a tempo change in the forum of “I’m A Ghost Of Twilight.” The deep and dark undertone sets the vibe, while the booming chorus ignites the track.

The chilling “Permafrost” leads nicely into energetic “Deluge,” which brings the album back to its break-neck pace. “Had To Put It In The Soil” finishes First Temple with some more jazzy riffs in a mid-tempo atmosphere, leaving the listener with the appetite to hit repeat.

First Temple is one of the best debut albums of 2009 and a must-own. Closure In Moscow contains just the right amount of aggression and melody to keep fans of different genres satisfied. The only downfall is how similar this sounds to other bands in the scene, as well as some songs blending together. But the Aussie quintet will be setting stages a blaze in the next few years, as First Temple is sure to become a scene staple in 2009.


1. Kissing Cousins
2. Reindeer Age
3. Sweet#hart
4. Vanguard
5. A Night at the Spleen
6. I’m A Ghost of Twilight
7. Permafrost
8. Deluge
9. Afterbirth
10. Arecibo Message
11. Couldn’t Let You Love Me
12. Had to Put It in the Soil
Produced by: Kris Crummett

Closure In Moscow is:
Mansur Zennelli – guitar/vocals
Beau McKee – drums
Chris De Cinque – vocals
Brad Kimber – bass
Michael Barrett – guitar

Official Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/closureinmoscow); Official AP.net Profile (http://www.absolutepunk.net/closureinmoscow)

[kemichels]

Good review and I feel pretty much the same. I agree about some of the tracks blending together, but there are some definite standouts. His voice does sound ridiculously like The Mars Volta singer, but I enjoy it nonetheless. It'll be interesting to see what kind of progression they make from this album onwards.

[Co and Ca]

They pretty much sound like a pocket-sized Mars Volta. Is that a bad thing? Hell no. I love the Mars Volta. These guys have the potential to dominate my play list this year.

[aquabayside]

I'm personally more of a fan of their ep, it had more of the feel i like from their song writing, seemed to vary more

[Piss]

best debut album of 2008?

[Chris Fallon]

I wasn't sure if I'd like this band, but I do. Quite a bit actually. Normally not my type of sound either.

Good review there Drewsef.

[Andy Antar]

Hahahaha I'm still waiting for my damn week-old review to be approved. The priviledge of being staff, huh?

EDIT: Also:


First Temple is one of the best debut albums of 2008

Should be 2009.

[Fycus]

This review seems rushed, much like the album. I actually think the album deserves a higher score, but to each his own. Hopefully as they mature their sound will follow suit.

[WhoSaidThat?]

They pretty much sound like a pocket-sized Mars Volta. Is that a bad thing? Hell no. I love the Mars Volta. These guys have the potential to dominate my play list this year.
I should like this album if you put it that way.

[Steve Henderson]

I would rate musicianship much higher, along with scores for creativity and production. I really dig this record and hope this band goes on to do big things.

[Protested Hero]

The review seems to praise this album a lot more than a 77%. I feel completely different about the last paragraph of the review than Drew. After repeated listens the songs definitely take a life of their own and sound very distinct. Also, although there are similarities between the vocals and The Mars Volta, I don't see how points were taken off for sounding like other bands in the scene, I think Closure is in a league of their own. Name a band that has a song that sounds like "A Night At The Spleen". Regardless, good review man, and I agree that these guys are going places.

[Steve Henderson]

The review seems to praise this album a lot more than a 77%. I feel completely different about the last paragraph of the review than Drew. After repeated listens the songs definitely take a life of their own and sound very distinct. Also, although there are similarities between the vocals and The Mars Volta, I don't see how points were taken off for sounding like other bands in the scene, I think Closure is in a league of their own. Name a band that has a song that sounds like "A Night At The Spleen". Regardless, good review man, and I agree that these guys are going places.
I agree on "Night at the Spleen" - that song is super unique. "Ghost of Twilight" is pretty different as well from something their peers would make.

[Brett9]

I really love this album. The musicianship is incredible, while the lyrics are a little weak, imo. I definitely hear the Mars Volta references, but there's definitely a lot of Circa Survive in here too (anyone else hear it particularly in Ghost of Twilight where he says "It's also stabbing me to sleep, Needles long into the night"??) Anyway, I really love this album - great review, Drew...short and sweet.

[Protested Hero]

I agree on "Night at the Spleen" - that song is super unique. "Ghost of Twilight" is pretty different as well from something their peers would make.
I just honestly don't see many similarities in any of the songs to other bands. "Arecibo Message" is unlike anything I've ever heard, the opening vocal patterns are similar to eastern melodies (India, etc.). Kissing Cousins and Reindeer Age could arguably sound similar to other bands, but Closure just does it so much better that it doesn't even matter, haha.

[_><_]

It lacks the punch that the EP had, but it's good.

[Young Machetes]

Really great album. These guys were really good at the Bamboozle as well.

[walshknilb281]

if you want a good Aussie band listen to British India. RIYL Mancheter Orchestra, Kings of Leon, good stuff better than typical "post hardcore screamo"

[reissgoespunk]

*2009

[tony_u]

Reach for the Sun - Musicianship 9

First Temple - Musicianship 8


Makes perfect sense

[Vanilla Bear]

love this record

[supersizefries]

i feel like that old saying from the bible about casting pearls before swine. even though it was a positive review overall, i feel like this guy drew just didn't get the record and gave a half assed effort. i don't know that i was expecting a whole lot more out him but it definitely shows how far off the mark this individual or perhaps this site can be. amazing record guys!

[BulleTheory]

i feel like people are only relating them to the mars volta just because of the vocals and nothing else...i think that is the only thing that is comparable to them

[Drew Beringer]

Man, you people really care about the number score way too much. Just read the content, which is pretty much all positive, that should be enough to tell I really like this album.

Also, I'm not the same guy who reviewed Reach For The Sun, so whoever brought that up is a fuckin idiot.

[Cheesus]

I love how every album you choose to review ends up being great (well, at least in my opinion that is.)

[ind1ekid]

Really solid record i thought. As someone's previously said, 'A Night at the Spleen' is a super unique song, and on first listen it certainly stood out from the rest for me, making me want to listen to it again and again!

I think its safe to say the album isnt amazing, but its a very fair reveiw on Drew's part! :)

[brenByah]

I love this record from start to finish, though I spend most of my time playing "Sweet#hart" on repeat.

[jco3]

I'm in love with the chord progression in the chorus of "Deluge." Great, great stuff.

[tony_u]

Man, you people really care about the number score way too much. Just read the content, which is pretty much all positive, that should be enough to tell I really like this album.

Also, I'm not the same guy who reviewed Reach For The Sun, so whoever brought that up is a fuckin idiot.
why even use numbers if there's no standardization?

[C480RG]

I would rate musicianship much higher, along with scores for creativity and production. I really dig this record and hope this band goes on to do big things.
I full heartedly agree with you. Let me say that you were absolutely right months ago about how much I would love this album. I havent been able to take a day off this album. Their stay at Equal Vision is just the next step for these guys to go more mainstream. I am so excited to see them live this Sat :)

[brenByah]

Closure in Moscow fills the void I had after Saosin became less interesting.

[C480RG]

Man, you people really care about the number score way too much. Just read the content, which is pretty much all positive, that should be enough to tell I really like this album.

Also, I'm not the same guy who reviewed Reach For The Sun, so whoever brought that up is a fuckin idiot.
I think people take it to close to heart when they see an album that they enjoy get a similar score to an album that is mediocrely (if you can understand what I am saying there- its not really a word) the same with rating scores. :-(

But yes, you do put quite the praise for this album and band. My favorite song is "After Birth"

[C480RG]

if you want a good Aussie band listen to British India. RIYL Mancheter Orchestra, Kings of Leon, good stuff better than typical "post hardcore screamo"
this is far from typical, IMO

[robat19]

why even use numbers if there's no standardization?
different people, different views on things. maybe if Drew reviewed Reach For The Sun it wouldn't have been a 9 on musicianship.

[Gregory Robson]

Why is there no RIYL?

[theripped0ne]

shredfest 09

keep it comin fellas. daddy likey.

[Handraa]

I still need to get this.

[ninetyFhOURs]

I thought they reminded me of The Receiving End of Sirens more than anyone, mixed with a little Saosin.

excited about getting this though

[Steve Henderson]

Why is there no RIYL?
The Mars Volta, Circa Survive, Kaddisfly, Dredg, Saosin

[Steve Henderson]

Reach for the Sun - Musicianship 9

First Temple - Musicianship 8


Makes perfect sense
Like Drew said, different reviewers...

I am fine with that TDS record, but there is no way in hell it deserves a 9 in any category.

[Protested Hero]

if you want a good Aussie band listen to British India. RIYL Mancheter Orchestra, Kings of Leon, good stuff better than typical "post hardcore screamo"
So it's typical indie drivel? Way to absolutely not even bother listening to the band before writing them off. They don't even scream.

The reason I brought up the number score is that if it isn't meant to be looked at (as in just read the review) then why bother having it up there?

[HometownHero]

I love this album

[Gregory Robson]

Like Drew said, different reviewers...

I am fine with that TDS record, but there is no way in hell it deserves a 9 in any category.
Totally agree with the TDS comment. It's a great pop record, but it's not a 9 anywhere.

[I Shot Chicago]

nice review.
i picked this album up at bamboozle and haven't stopped listening to it since.

[Steve Henderson]

Totally agree with the TDS comment. It's a great pop record, but it's not a 9 anywhere.
I would personally rate it more as "good" or "solid" - nothing about it screams to me beyond that.

[iAMhollyood315]

I don't get this number score thing either if you write a review that sounds like a B or higher or whatever then why give it a C+ in numbers that makes absolutely no sense.

[mybreakingpoint]

These guys sound so much like so many other EVR bands the last few years, that it really bugs me. It makes it hard to appreciate it for what it is, even. All I can think of is "Man, that sounded like Emery" or "Wow, that sounded just like YouInSeries (not surprisingly, another like-minded EVR band). They're obviously solid musicians, but it's kind of hard for me to overlook their similarities to so many other bands. I hate that I think of 5 bands they sound remarkably similar to by just listening to their first song, you know?

I feel like music should be 50 percent as original as possible, and 50 percent a tribute to your influences & favorite bands & styles, but unfortunately, it seems like instead of 50/50, they might be closer to 20/80, which isn't necessarily a bad thing all the time, but for me, it is when you want an album to have a great lasting value, and I just don't hear this band being one I can appreciate 5 years from now like I would have 3 or so years ago.

Great musicians and a solid record for what it is, but just not something I can get into anymore. :shrug:

[ship of fools]

Not feeling this release at all.

[seanthethief]

great album, but how can you review this and not mentioned "A Night At The Spleen"? it's the standout track!

[JimmyAveningo]

this cd deserves an 85 just for night at the spleen alone.

[Steve Henderson]

These guys sound so much like so many other EVR bands the last few years, that it really bugs me. It makes it hard to appreciate it for what it is, even. All I can think of is "Man, that sounded like Emery" or "Wow, that sounded just like YouInSeries (not surprisingly, another like-minded EVR band). They're obviously solid musicians, but it's kind of hard for me to overlook their similarities to so many other bands. I hate that I think of 5 bands they sound remarkably similar to by just listening to their first song, you know?

I feel like music should be 50 percent as original as possible, and 50 percent a tribute to your influences & favorite bands & styles, but unfortunately, it seems like instead of 50/50, they might be closer to 20/80, which isn't necessarily a bad thing all the time, but for me, it is when you want an album to have a great lasting value, and I just don't hear this band being one I can appreciate 5 years from now like I would have 3 or so years ago.

Great musicians and a solid record for what it is, but just not something I can get into anymore. :shrug:
That's a pretty lazy musical comparison to make. Maybe on the first listen, they could conjure up images of EVR brethren, but when you dig into it, these guys are WAY more diverse than even the best the label has had in a long time.

[TheRealJohnOC]

this album is pretty damn good. I listened to it after bamboozle on saturday and I was shocked! The EP (Pennance and the Patience) was a great start and this album was on my most anticipated list. They were playing Bamboozle Sunday so I decided to get to their stage early. As soon as their set was on, there was no lie, about 50 people there. Only 5 of us knew the words to the EP but it didn't matter at all. The band had so much energy that they made the audience go crazy. This band is incredible and I get to see them twice this summer with Madina Lake and Emery. I hope this band gets pretty big soon!

[canvasofwinter]

This band is blowing me away. I liked the EP (particularly the first track), but this is on a whole new level. I must've listened to Sweet#hart forty or fifty times since getting it, and the rest of it is no slouch either. I'm amazed no one's mentioning Arecibo Message yet. What a spiralling, dizzying, epic song.

[Protested Hero]

That's a pretty lazy musical comparison to make. Maybe on the first listen, they could conjure up images of EVR brethren, but when you dig into it, these guys are WAY more diverse than even the best the label has had in a long time.
Yeah I definitely agree. I can hear a trace of Emery or Circa Survive in maybe 3-4 seconds of maybe one song, but thats it. They blow away those other bands with their creativity.

[11:11]

Definately the best debut this year, and one of my top 3 albums so far. "A Night At the Spleen" is probably the best song I've heard all year. "Vanguard", "Sweet#hart", and "Arecibo Message" are also brilliant.

[bdil]

I agree that it's very Mars Volta-esq. I like it.

[tony_u]

Like Drew said, different reviewers...

I am fine with that TDS record, but there is no way in hell it deserves a 9 in any category.
I was just saying the musicianship rating is the only metric on the scale that even comes close to being able to be quantified. these guys are way more technical musicians (better at their instruments) than most other bands reviewed here... however the score for their musicianship doesn't really reflect that. Back to my point, numerical ratings (especially by different reviewers with drastically different opinions) are stupid.

[Steve Henderson]

I was just saying the musicianship rating is the only metric on the scale that even comes close to being able to be quantified. these guys are way more technical musicians (better at their instruments) than most other bands reviewed here... however the score for their musicianship doesn't really reflect that. Back to my point, numerical ratings (especially by different reviewers with drastically different opinions) are stupid.
I agree the numbers are pretty much useless, but people want to see them on reviews.

[mybreakingpoint]

That's a pretty lazy musical comparison to make. Maybe on the first listen, they could conjure up images of EVR brethren, but when you dig into it, these guys are WAY more diverse than even the best the label has had in a long time.
I'm not gonna lie, I listened to them for the first time with a bias. I'm just really tired of every other band being RIYL: Circa Survive, Saosin. No one can deny that practically 1/3 new bands that pop up on the radar every day are listed as such, and lately when I see that, I almost automatically listen to it like I'm not gonna like it. I only gave it one-and-a-half listens, and as much as I really liked the vocals sometimes, the music wasn't doing it for me, and I felt like I'd heard all the lyrics before, you know what I mean? Maybe I'm just not in the mood for that kind of style right now (I've been on a huge pop-punk kick lately, lots of Relient K, I Am The Avalanche, and Anti-Flag with little else the last week-and-a-half or so). I'll give them another listen maybe when I'm more in the mood for that sort of thing. I rated it a 75, because it is good, it's just not hitting me like it's apparently hitting so many other people. I will give it another chance though, but I can't be the only one who's tired of seeing "RIYL: Saosin and/or Circa Survive", you know what I mean? Seeing that automatically makes me think "Oh great, this will be original." It seems like lately this style of post-hardcore is becoming about as original as most metalcore bands are, and it's just stale & boring for me.

[c_rob2700]

Why people always bring scores of different reviewes BY different reviewers is lost on me. Just because one staff member has an high opinion of one album that doesn't mean that every one else on staff has the same opinion. Dumbest fucking arguement that is abused every time.

[Steve Henderson]

I'm not gonna lie, I listened to them for the first time with a bias. I'm just really tired of every other band being RIYL: Circa Survive, Saosin. No one can deny that practically 1/3 new bands that pop up on the radar every day are listed as such, and lately when I see that, I almost automatically listen to it like I'm not gonna like it. I only gave it one-and-a-half listens, and as much as I really liked the vocals sometimes, the music wasn't doing it for me, and I felt like I'd heard all the lyrics before, you know what I mean? Maybe I'm just not in the mood for that kind of style right now (I've been on a huge pop-punk kick lately, lots of Relient K, I Am The Avalanche, and Anti-Flag with little else the last week-and-a-half or so). I'll give them another listen maybe when I'm more in the mood for that sort of thing. I rated it a 75, because it is good, it's just not hitting me like it's apparently hitting so many other people. I will give it another chance though, but I can't be the only one who's tired of seeing "RIYL: Saosin and/or Circa Survive", you know what I mean? Seeing that automatically makes me think "Oh great, this will be original." It seems like lately this style of post-hardcore is becoming about as original as most metalcore bands are, and it's just stale & boring for me.
If you're not a fan of the genre, of course you are going to go in with a bias - completely unfair. There is a large difference than RIYL: Saosin/Circa than saying the sound just like them. If anything, these guys are a lot more similar to TMV or Kaddisfly.

It doesn't make much sense to me that you can say these guys are unoriginal, but then be loving Relient K or IATA - two pretty unoriginal bands in their own right.

[njdevils327]

okay wait a minute? An aiden record got the same review score as Closure In Moscow's First Temple

There is no justice in this world.

I know its different reviewers drew, i just feel like its unfair

[acfrue]

These guys sound so much like so many other EVR bands the last few years, that it really bugs me. It makes it hard to appreciate it for what it is, even. All I can think of is "Man, that sounded like Emery" or "Wow, that sounded just like YouInSeries (not surprisingly, another like-minded EVR band). They're obviously solid musicians, but it's kind of hard for me to overlook their similarities to so many other bands. I hate that I think of 5 bands they sound remarkably similar to by just listening to their first song, you know?

I feel like music should be 50 percent as original as possible, and 50 percent a tribute to your influences & favorite bands & styles, but unfortunately, it seems like instead of 50/50, they might be closer to 20/80, which isn't necessarily a bad thing all the time, but for me, it is when you want an album to have a great lasting value, and I just don't hear this band being one I can appreciate 5 years from now like I would have 3 or so years ago.

Great musicians and a solid record for what it is, but just not something I can get into anymore. :shrug:
This is one of the few times that I disagree with you.

And wow at people freaking out over the rating for the album, like Drew said, read the content of the review. He calls it one of the best debuts of 2009 and a must own, get over it.

[njdevils327]

this album is pretty damn good. I listened to it after bamboozle on saturday and I was shocked! The EP (Pennance and the Patience) was a great start and this album was on my most anticipated list. They were playing Bamboozle Sunday so I decided to get to their stage early. As soon as their set was on, there was no lie, about 50 people there. Only 5 of us knew the words to the EP but it didn't matter at all. The band had so much energy that they made the audience go crazy. This band is incredible and I get to see them twice this summer with Madina Lake and Emery. I hope this band gets pretty big soon!

Im glad to say i was one of the ones singing along with you at bamboozle. it was an awesome show.

Haha Cat In The Hat costume.

[Drew Beringer]

Like Drew said, different reviewers...

I am fine with that TDS record, but there is no way in hell it deserves a 9 in any category.
I agree with you Steve.

[Drew Beringer]

great album, but how can you review this and not mentioned "A Night At The Spleen"? it's the standout track!
haha I know, there always seems to be one track I don't mention that everyone seems to like. I guess my bad? but it's not my personal favorite, it is a good track, there are just others I liked more.

[vaguestcargo]

It lacks the punch that the EP had, but it's good.
I agree with (and came here to say) this. I like this album as much or more than I like anything else this year and probably played their EP to death, but I think Breathing Underwater, Dulcinea and We Want Guarantees is better than anything on this album IMO.

[mybreakingpoint]

If you're not a fan of the genre, of course you are going to go in with a bias - completely unfair. There is a large difference than RIYL: Saosin/Circa than saying the sound just like them. If anything, these guys are a lot more similar to TMV or Kaddisfly.

It doesn't make much sense to me that you can say these guys are unoriginal, but then be loving Relient K or IATA - two pretty unoriginal bands in their own right.

I am a fan of the genre though; I like some Saosin. I like Circa Survive. I like Kaddisfly. I like the Mars Volta. I'm a fan of the genre, but I just wish so many of the bands didn't sound so similar. It gets a little old after a while, doesn't it? I'm not going to say that I won't be listening to differently if I see a band that is RIYL: At The Drive-In, Refused, Thursday as opposed to Saosin, which, especially when you're like me & peruse a lot of music sites like I do & have multiple friends who subscribe to Alternative Press, I see RIYL: Saoson probably 3-5 times a week with bands I've never even heard of, and it just turns me off a little.

I really wasn't trying to bash these guys; they're obviously beyond-capable musicians, I just don't think they're doing anything terribly revolutionary or innovative--which isn't a bad thing, 'cause like you said, neither do RK or IATA at times--but there just seems to be such a plethora of bands rehashing that sound & style that sometimes it's hard to differentiate between a truly great band and another group of trend-hoppers who think the style & sound of the genre are cool & more important than writing truly meaningful, powerful music.

Like I said, I'm really not trying to shit-talk any bands; I've rated albums on here by bands I love lower than a 75% on here before, so please, try not to take everything I said as me saying "These guys are a pile of shit." Did I not point out what I DO like about the band, AS WELL AS what I don't like? Isn't that the point of discussing music? Maybe these guys are the next Circa Survive or the next Mars Volta and I just don't hear it; I'm willing to admit that I might be wrong. But musical preference is subjective and an opinion is an opinion; I stated my beliefs and gave reasons why, I didn't just go "Man, these guys are God-awful & generic." I tried to be neutral and say plenty of good things as well as bad things, which is more than can be said for many other posts in this thread, so why get upset about my more-or-less neutral post instead of jumping on the "Wow, this bands sucks" posts, which isn't what I said.

This band is good, and I'll have to listen more to determine whether I think they deserve the loads of hype they've been seemingly getting; just because I don't hear it now, doesn't mean I won't later, which I'm pretty sure I already said, so I really don't think it's a big deal. :shrug:

This is one of the few times that I disagree with you.

And wow at people freaking out over the rating for the album, like Drew said, read the content of the review, he calls it one of the best debuts of 2009 and a must own.

I heard these guys for the first time from you in your video you made, and it didn't do anything for me. And I listened to the album, and it didn't do much more than that one song did, but I'm not bashing them and I'm not saying they're not a good band, I just don't hear what so many other people seem to hear. Some people hear something in my music; others don't. And it's really not a big deal if they don't, so I don't see why it's a big deal if I don't hear something from this band.

[Mattylikesfilms]

Good review and I feel pretty much the same. I agree about some of the tracks blending together, but there are some definite standouts. His voice does sound ridiculously like The Mars Volta singer, but I enjoy it nonetheless. It'll be interesting to see what kind of progression they make from this album onwards.

Yeah as soon as I heard this album I thought it was maybe a side project of the mars volta. A lot of tracks do blend together but the musicianship and and voice that you hear off this album is ace.

[Mattylikesfilms]

okay wait a minute? An aiden record got the same review score as Closure In Moscow's First Temple

There is no justice in this world.

I know its different reviewers drew, i just feel like its unfair

Aiden got the same percent?!? What the fuck, closure is moscow is light years ahead aiden in every aspect.

[Drew Beringer]

I'm sure the Aiden review is an user review.

[bahiatt]

First Temple is what I have been looking for and I did not even know it. This is definitely a good review.

[njdevils327]

yeah i didnt actually realize it was. but it was the first that came up when i searched aiden. im sorry for that waste of a post. i went back and reread your review and it seems higly fair.

Well done, Drew

[c_rob2700]

okay wait a minute? An aiden record got the same review score as Closure In Moscow's First Temple

There is no justice in this world.

I know its different reviewers drew, i just feel like its unfair
User review

[TheRealJohnOC]

Im glad to say i was one of the ones singing along with you at bamboozle. it was an awesome show.

Haha Cat In The Hat costume.
oh yeah nothing like the Cat in the Hat costume haha I hope he has different costumes for every show hahaha but yeah it's awesome knowing someone else who was singing! I was actually front and center (the really tall kid) haha I tried doing an "Aussie Aussie Aussie" chant but no one was down with it lol

[vaguestcargo]

if you want a good Aussie band listen to British India. RIYL Mancheter Orchestra, Kings of Leon, good stuff better than typical "post hardcore screamo"
not sure if you've heard the album, but I'm fairly certain there isn't an ounce of screaming on First Temple... sooooo... screammmmo isn't exactly an accurate description, friend.

[njdevils327]

oh yeah nothing like the Cat in the Hat costume haha I hope he has different costumes for every show hahaha but yeah it's awesome knowing someone else who was singing! I was actually front and center (the really tall kid) haha I tried doing an "Aussie Aussie Aussie" chant but no one was down with it lol
haha i tried that right at the end. and yeah i was second row on the rightish. good stuff.

[newfoundmichael]

If you're not a fan of the genre, of course you are going to go in with a bias - completely unfair. There is a large difference than RIYL: Saosin/Circa than saying the sound just like them. If anything, these guys are a lot more similar to TMV or Kaddisfly.

It doesn't make much sense to me that you can say these guys are unoriginal, but then be loving Relient K or IATA - two pretty unoriginal bands in their own right.
fasho.

[acfrue]

Nathan, its not that I'm upset or anything like that, I just feel that even though they do sound similar to a lot of artists (several of which happen to be EVR), they are original. I realize that you give them credit for being great musicians, that they are, but really its just my opinion and your opinion, no one is wrong, no one is right.

Sorry, I tried quoting your post but I guess it was too long for mobile to quote.

[JohnnyBombSquad]

I think 'A Night At The Spleen' and 'I'm A Ghost Of Twilight' are the best songs on the album. They didn't get a mention? They're incredible.

[Drew Beringer]

I think 'A Night At The Spleen' and 'I'm A Ghost Of Twilight' are the best songs on the album. They didn't get a mention? They're incredible.
I did mention I'm A Ghost Of Twilight, as I think that is my favorite song. Reread the third (I think) paragraph.

[dpatrickguy]

this CD is better than the EP. Way more accessible

[dpatrickguy]

I agree with you Steve.
the reviewer tilt perhaps?

[amandangerousx]

Solid review.

[Latane]

I like the review but I think it should have got a little bit higher of a score. The musicianship should be a little higher and I also think the production was pretty solid. Then again the creativity was only a 7 which is low as well. If you name me almost any band I could probably think of three or four bands that sounds somewhat similar.

[Bloodsucker II]

Good review. I've only heard the stuff on their myspace and I was anticipating a higher scored review,but I will still probably pick this up.

[barkingincision]

this cd deserves more.
though they do take obvious influences from the mars volta and circa survive and others, they take it to a different level. i'm astounded that the reviewer missed the incredible and unique new things that closure have utilized in this record. i mean, come on, sure they're in the same prog-post-hardcore genre as the aforementioned bands, but they definitely don't sound just like them, they set themselves apart. the guitarwork is vastly different, the use of steel pedal guitar and upright bass, the funky, almost r&b vocal lines that chris provides in songs like kissing cousins and a night at the spleen, these all set the band apart. and while they'll never top the pure brilliance of the mars volta, they surpassed their ep by far and made the first great record of 09.

[more heart]

This band will be huge soon.

[InBetweenAisles]

They deserve higher ratings! This album was really solid. I LOVED it. Closure In Moscow is such an amazing band.

[Spenny]

Songs don't blend together very much at all, IMO.
And while there are a lot of similarities to other bands, they still manage to make every song their own. Again, in my opinion.

Personal rating: 90%. But this was a good review regardless.

[canvasofwinter]

Is it blasphemy that I like this MORE than anything Mars Volta has put out since De-Loused?

[TheFallenAngel]

The problem with the scores are a lot of people will click a review, see the score, and leave the topic, and that will influence their feelings on whether to try an album.

I checked out TDS album only because of the high score, and I knew plenty of people who skipped out on the ADTR album because of the very low score.

Abolish the number system. Thumbs up or Thumbs down would more then suffice accompanied by a solid write up

[Aperi Oculos]

Closure in Moscow fills the void I had after Saosin became less interesting.
Definitely this. They kinda had a cool Saosin/TREOS vibe on their albumette which I liked. This new release definitely is unique...just not sure if it is as good as the albumette. Their early comparison to Saosin might haunt them with fans of both bands always comparing the current state of the band to their respective debut E.P.s

[brenByah]

Definitely this. They kinda had a cool Saosin/TREOS vibe on their albumette which I liked. This new release definitely is unique...just not sure if it is as good as the albumette. Their early comparison to Saosin might haunt them with fans of both bands always comparing the current state of the band to their respective debut E.P.s
When it comes to Saosin, it doesn't get any better than the White EP for me. I found the full length a bit disappointing, it at least didn't have near as much lasting value to me as the EP did. Closure in Moscow's full length seems to have delivered more successfully in my book. Each band has a similar style, so this record's been giving me what I've been missing from the genre.

[Steve Henderson]

Is it blasphemy that I like this MORE than anything Mars Volta has put out since De-Loused?
Same for me.

[hydraulicheart]

One of my top albums so far this year, and so very stoked on seeing them Saturday.

[irthesteve]

How did you not talk about "A Night at the Spleen"???? Thats pretty much the greatest song on here

[Drew Beringer]

Because you think it's the "greatest song on here" doesn't mean I think that. It's a good song, I didn't mention it, the world continues to spin.

[Keagan Ilvonen]

Good album, good review Drew.

[barkingincision]

Songs don't blend together very much at all, IMO.
And while there are a lot of similarities to other bands, they still manage to make every song their own. Again, in my opinion.

Personal rating: 90%. But this was a good review regardless.
mhmm

[NickMartin]

great fuckin record

[Vermillion]

The bassist really got short changed on this album, and Permafrost sucks.

Good album overall, though.

[Romancebled]

very solid album. one of my favorites of the year so far.

[KingsCrossing]

These guys sound so much like so many other EVR bands the last few years, that it really bugs me. It makes it hard to appreciate it for what it is, even. All I can think of is "Man, that sounded like Emery" or "Wow, that sounded just like YouInSeries (not surprisingly, another like-minded EVR band). They're obviously solid musicians, but it's kind of hard for me to overlook their similarities to so many other bands. I hate that I think of 5 bands they sound remarkably similar to by just listening to their first song, you know?

I feel like music should be 50 percent as original as possible, and 50 percent a tribute to your influences & favorite bands & styles, but unfortunately, it seems like instead of 50/50, they might be closer to 20/80, which isn't necessarily a bad thing all the time, but for me, it is when you want an album to have a great lasting value, and I just don't hear this band being one I can appreciate 5 years from now like I would have 3 or so years ago.

Great musicians and a solid record for what it is, but just not something I can get into anymore. :shrug:
Completely agreed.

[genericmadness]

I would rate musicianship much higher, along with scores for creativity and production. I really dig this record and hope this band goes on to do big things.
I was going to say the same. Those three areas I would definitely give more points to. As for originality, their EP was more derivative and even that was a breath of fresh air to me. Though I suppose if the score bothers me, I can just review it myself.

[FaceLixeMurder]

It lacks the punch that the EP had, but it's good.
I agree, I love the ep but the album is pretty sweet, also they are badass live

[abellaw]

I think this album is amazing...definitely different from the EP. At first i was really disappointed with the change of direction but i remembered my experience with in:aviate and how i love their new album and direction.

So i gave it more listens and this is one of the best albums i have heard in 2009 a must buy for any somewhat fan of this genre...

[cereal4life]

It lacks the punch that the EP had, but it's good.
Exactly what I reckon.

[nicoteen]

I absolutely love this CD. I have hardly stopped listening to it at all since it was streaming on Purevolume. It's the first CD I have went out of my way to go buy in ages and when I forgot that copy at my brothers house (a 2 and a half hour drive away) when I got to the mall again I bought another copy. I agree with a few people about the less than 80% score and the review seemed a little short and not full of very much description for such a diverse band. I think the vocalist sounds like a mix between Cedric of Mars Volta and the singer of Brazil. Best release for me this year!

[ygoslo]

Apparently I'm missing something, because this record sounds nothing like anything else to me. Closure are very much their own band.

Love the record, BTW, and it is a 90-odd% score for me.

[cereal4life]

Good review here Drew! Straight-forward and to the point. I just think you should be cautious of using words repeatedly, such as needle/needling. In consecutive paragraphs, it's just a bit repetitive; maybe use "weaving" or something? Not a biggie, just what I reckon.

[cereal4life]

Is it blasphemy that I like this MORE than anything Mars Volta has put out since De-Loused?
Nope! I feel the same way.

[I am Mick]

Seeing them tonight, so fucking stoked.
I really hope they play mostly new songs, their EP was decent, but i feel this full length blows that shit out of the water in every conceivable way.

[nickthehick2]

I love this album.

[Broden Terry]

I'm a little undecided about this band. :shrug: Great review though.

[skyphoenix]

I dont know if this has been asked but if this is a must-own and the best debut of 2009 so far, why is it only a 77%?

[thedaywedied]

if their drummer was a bit more interesting... this would be a massive album

[the1]

Still astounded by the guitar work on these thing. A-m-a-z-i-n-g.

[Burn_Burn_Burn]

It lacks the punch that the EP had, but it's good.
Very much disagree with this;
it punches with a lot more enthusiasm and uniqueness than the EP had, in my opinion.
Also, I have to agree with the other posts; if it was such an amazing album, why not a higher score. I give it a little over an 85.

[drakey]

I love them. I heard the P&P ep only a few months before this was released and am stoked to hear more from them. I don't think they'll get very big though. it goes with the whole "type" statement, and Closure In Moscow isn't favorable by most kids these days.

[Cheesus]

This album is blowing me away thus far. 09' is amazing so far.



if their drummer was a bit more interesting... this would be a massive album

In a way I can see what you mean by this but I think he is a superb drummer and his style flows flawlessly with the music.

[symbiote28]

i've only one thing to say .. if only i came across this band much more earlier .. :-)

[n1asfan]

Good review. I LOVE this CD. I must check out the ep since everyone is raving about it.

[tottivillarossi]

7 for creativity? Lulz.

[xapplexpiex]

I picked this up the other day and I love it. The vocals do kinda remind me of The Mars Volta. But I still think this disc is pretty unique. This is one of my favorites of the year for sure.

[kevinjordan]

I agree on "Night at the Spleen" - that song is super unique. "Ghost of Twilight" is pretty different as well from something their peers would make.
Night at the Spleen rules. I can't stand "Ghost of Twilight" though.. the songs in the middle of the album really fall off for me, and I find myself skipping tracks. The first five are killer though, I find myself repeating these over and over!

[Shaken]

Love this album, it's like a cross between TMV, Circa Survive, and TFOT.

[CheckeredFloors]

Nobody has mentioned the vocal interplay.
Personally, I fucking love the contrast between Chris' and Manny's voices