Review by Shannon Shumaker
Only five songs in length, the new EP from south Texas-based emo act Sine Cura is an emotional roller coaster from start to finish. Spearheaded by emotional vocals, poetic lyricism and raw yet intricate instrumentals, I Am Growing, Honestly is one of the most unique releases of 2017 so far.
The first thing that will stand out about I Am Growing, Honestly is the emotion behind the vocal work. Opening track “Drive” feels a bit unconventional, which will certainly grab your attention as well, but vocally, things are incredibly powerful. From there, Sine Cura really bloom as “Drive” flows easily into the upbeat “Growing Pains.” The second song feels a bit warmer than the opener, but connecting them is the raw quality to the recordings and the vulnerability in the vocals. These songs are to be taken at face value, as they’re definitely not overproduced, and the product feels very human and honest. The only downside in this is that the drums and bass can sometimes tend to overpower the rest of the band at times, but after a listen or two, that’s very easy to overlook.
Middle track, “Headache Remedy” is a lyrical triumph, reminiscent of early 2000’s emo bands such as The Honorary Title or This Providence. Carried by stunning imagery and powerful metaphors, (such as the line, “My chest cavity was rotting so you carved out all the bad things and started stringing lights”) it’s the perfect climax for this short EP.
Contrasting perfectly with the emotional “Headache Remedy” is the explosive and bright “Pressing Flowers” and the closing track, “La Luna.” The final song, similar to “Headache Remedy” is carried by sweeping metaphors and honest, emotional vocals. By the time it comes to an end, you’ll feel as if you know the band and understand the stories behind these songs, and this is thanks to the raw sound of the album and transparent lyricism. Sine Cura have found something really special here – now they just need to continue to hone in on it.
LISTEN TO: “Growing Pains” or “Headache Remedy”
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