Breathing Blue channels their 'Inner Animal' with explosive rock and roll

Breathing Blue’s debut album, Inner Animal is sheer perfection. The powerful drums, bass and skilled guitar work combined with Sanford’s crooning vocals make Breathing Blue an upcoming band to watch out for.

The band formed in 2009 in New Jersey. Breathing Blue consists of members, Rob Bost, Matt Basilotto, Justin Sanford, Chris Dechert, and Tyler Moellmann (previously Jason LaRaia). In 2010, they released one self-titled EP. They won openings at Bamboozle via The Break Contest in 2010 and in 2011. Since then, the band has performed with large names such as the Chiodos, MGMT, Paramore, Jonny Craig, and Automatic Loveletter. Breathing Blue’s music inspiration includes fun., the Dangerous Summer, and the Parlor Mob.

Breathing Blue maintains a high energy throughout their debut album, Inner Animal, and their sound can best be described as pure, addicting rock and roll. Their hit title track, “Inner Animal,” features Sanford’s crooning vocals, the explosive bass and drums, and catchy guitar riffs. In this track, Sanford’s voice reminds me of Matthew Bellamy’s vocals from Muse as he growls and croons.

“Blood and Bone” is a fun, upbeat track in which you can subtlety hear their influence from fun., but at the same time, Breathing Blue manages to retain their own distinctive sound. “This Isn’t About You” kicks into a catchy chorus with distorted guitar rhythms. My personal favorite track is “Guerrilla,” in which Sanford’s vocals exude pure sex as he growls, “Boy, I didn’t know/ Stay until you know,” in addition to the aggressive rhythms of the guitar.

Breathing Blue’s Inner Animal is a solid album which contains no disappointing tracks. All of the tracks are so equally impressive that it is difficult choosing a favorite. What Breathing Blue does well is combine the intricate instrumentation with the equally impressive vocals. Breathing Blue is a band worth exploring.