Typically I like to write up the band's history before diving into writing a review, however this time around I would like to get right to the issue at hand; the music. Without being completely ignorant I would like to setup the bands prior releases, but instead of dwelling on each of them in particular I promise to skip along quickly.

"Go" is the fifth album in the bands discography, but it has not been until the last release ("Everything You Want") that Vertical Horizon has gained any noticeable recognition. VH has used 'Everything I Want [the single]' to shoot them into superstardom, while all of their other music has been cast off as secondary. To all of those individuals who were seeking more of what the band had to offer, you have been rewarded greatly. Their last effort, was a remarkable album that served hit after hit leaving little room to catch your breath. To all of you who can only link this band with one tune, I recommend you investigate the music. But that is in the past, what is important now is their current day situation. Vertical Horizon will be releasing their brand new album, "Go", on September 23 of 2003. Will Vertical Horizon fizzle out or will their music continue to lead them to success?

This latest effort, "Go", is comprised of 11 new tracks, totalling approximately 45 minutes of mind-blowing music. The album comes after a 4 year silence in which the band toured extensively and regrouped for a second wind. Well the time is now, so take a deep breath and prepare for that second wind...

The band introduces you to the new album quite well with 'When You Cry'. The tune leaves off right where "Everything You Want" left off, all the while offering a fresh spin on the Alternative Rock genre. The guitars are somewhat heavier for the most part, but the hook and overall melody is Vertical Horizon at its finest. Even in the first few moments of "Go", you are able to hear the growth that VH has underwent in the previous 4 years. If the initial wave of music is an indication of what is in store, then brace yourself for one excellent collection of music...

'I'm Still Here' sneaks up quickly as the following track and immediately brings back a familiar friend. In fact, the guitar rift sounds identical to one that was used on "Everything You Want", plus you can hear the unique sound that accompanied that hit single, yes that one. However, the guitar rift and familiar foe gets buried shortly after the songs beginning, only to pop up on rare occasion. Again the guitars are loud and in your face, but never once is this an unsettling issue. On the contrary, this is an amazing song will find itself spilling out of your stereo set for weeks/months to come.

'Forever' is next to catch the spotlight and with good reason. While this song is not my favorite on the album, it certainly allows your mind some time catch up. The tune is not a poor choice, but instead it finds itself in the norm. I am not sure if too-simplistic would be the appropriate term, but less adventurous for sure. Make no mistake about it, 'Forever' does not merit the power to cause the album to stumble.

'Sunshine' chases down the 4th spot and pounces in an abrasive manner. What the hell does that mean? Immediately into the track your ears are loaded with an aggressive guitar rift that has no intentions of easing up. The track overall is an all out rocker that gains momentum as it carries on. The soft sounding vocals add intensity, emotion and feeling. The atmosphere is set up to perfection, while the rest of the track does not go unnoticed. This is not the perfect track, but it nestles into the set list well.

'Goodbye Again' can be referred to as hit or miss. The vocal style is executed in a unique form matched up against an elegant sounding background, wrapped up in a complete package. This is not a song that is going to jump out at you, but if you listen to this a few times you will begin to appreciate the finer points. If you aren't able to value those finer points, then I would not be surprised if you found yourself slightly bored and willing to say Goodbye...Again. Personally, I really enjoy the song as it allows me to hear the consistency from their last album to this album. This isn't a jaw dropper, but instead an acquired taste.

'Echo' is in one word, outstanding. From the very beginning until the last drop, you (if you are anything like me) will become mesmerized. From the lyrical message to the lyrical sound to the instrumentation, 'Echo' is firing on all cylinders. I do not believe that this tune has the potential to make or break the album, but I also do not feel as though the album would be the same without it. This is definitely Vertical Horizon 2003 at their finest. I can't pinpoint anything groundbreaking within the song, but rather that their execution exceeded their best expectations.

'It's Over' floats in at the 7 spot gently. The guitars are toned down and less aggressive, yet VH's focus still remains on track. Aside from the vivid imagery in the lyrical message I was not able to become deeply involved with this track. Without over analyzing the track, I will leave this one up to your own interpretation.

'One Of You' slides in and returns the rough-edged guitar rifts. The vocals are no more intense than what was found on the previous endeavor, but the song is an up-tempo rocker that will enter your mind and force your enjoyment. Again the lyrical vehicle is fast paced and influential, whereas the instrumentation is not mind boggling, but rather invasive. This one is worth checking into.

'Won't Go Away' is one of those songs that fits its' title well. In my opinion, this is one of those tracks that you wouldn't want to go away if it could, however with that said it has the uncanny ability to keep you thinking about it hours after listening to it. Yes, it is one of those tracks that will have you humming/singing several times throughout the day. I grew fond of the lyrical execution, as inside the packaging are some catchy guitar rifts accompanied by other tidbits that only add to the satisfaction. In any event, the track always find itself drifting back to its original sound, one that is sure to entertain.

'Inside' finds the 10 spot with elegance and grace. The elegance arising from the string accompaniment that greets you directly out of the gate. Shortly into the encounter you will notice the track find full gear, as the volume is increased, the guitars are in full force, and the devotion for playing music hits maximum speed. The track is massive in terms of overall sound, at times becoming slightly cluttered, but that is strictly subjective. The delayed vocals that were added are a nice touch, but again they add to the mass of sound that can be throughout. Overall this track is a has a different flavor, one that should be tasted before judged. I liked it.

'Underwater' brings the instrumentation down a bit, back to what is offered in the previous 9 tracks. The song showcases an eye-catching guitar rift that hooks your collar from the first time you hear it. The vocals are slowed down dramatically, thus creating the mood and adding to the atmosphere; making it original. The track will be void of so much for all of those looking for the next hit single, but for those who can find the importance in lyrical messages, this track is a must. I would not call this slow moving track explosive, but instead I would refer to it as having a heavy impact. Enjoy this one for what it is worth.

I will come out from the shadows to admit that Vertical Horizon does not being anything particularly new to the table, but they do manage to cast a reviving spin on the alternative rock genre. The genre had been suffering from band after band releasing background music, yet Vertical Horizon has stuck their neck out and output a wonderful collection of tracks. A few tracks remove the possibility of a perfect rating, but the fact remains, the album contains a significant amount of polish. I would not classify this as mood music, nor do I feel as though this release will find appreciation from a lone gathering of listeners. I do feel as though this album has something on it for everyone.

I would recommend this album to any music listener out there. Of course, it is likely that you will not find greatness in every track, I do feel as though you will see the value within their music. For all of those naysayers, sample first. If you want an album to keep your mind busy, then get in line for this release in a few weeks.

Enjoy it.
 

Track Listing:
01 When you Cry
02 I'm Still Here
03 Forever
04 Sunshine
05 Goodbye Again
06 Echo
07 It's Over
08 One Of You
09 Won't Go Away
10 Inside
11 Underwater

Ramz Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Planets


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