Forebear is described as an indie rock band. That description has become overused and worn out in the music industry. If a group plays an acoustic guitar or a violin or any indie classified instrument, they are automatically compared to that of Death Cab for Cutie or Mumford and Sons and become another name on a growing roster of indie rock artists.
The group is made up of Scott Goldbaum on lead vocals and guitar, Mike Musselman on the drums, Molly Rogers on vocals, keys and viola and Nick Chamain on bass and vocals.
From the opening track, “North Korea and the Five Stages of Grief,” it is clear that this band doesn’t want to just get lost in the shuffle of never ending indie rock bands and are ready and willing to make a strong first impression as a new band. The song slowly builds on itself and Goldbaum’s vocals are the focus. His vocal style is something that is unique, yet subtle and has such a smooth tone that it draws the listener in. About a minute into the song, it really hits its stride, Goldbaum’s vocals are rounded out by Rogers and Chamain and their harmonies feel effortless. This vocal mash-up is something that makes this album feel different. How the instruments frame these complex harmonies really highlight the talent the group has.
The album transitions to “Cusp,” which has a catchy guitar rift to open the song that carries the melody throughout. This single has a different feel compared to “North Korea,”; it experiments more with their sound and brings in different musical inspirations. This willingness to be different and explore their musical sound helps to take this album from just another indie band to being a band that really has chance to do well on the charts.
Closing out the effort is “Who Write off Who” and “Pigeons Eating Glass.” “Who Writes off Who” is the longest track of the album and they use that time to really present their musical direction and show off how the band will be able to move forward. They have something special with their vocal harmonies and complex lyrics. It’s captivating and just when fans think the song is going to be a slow ballad, it turns over into a full on electric and high energy song. This is the transition from more modern and slow songs to a harder sound. Even with the change, it is clear that they are still pulling from the same musical influences.
Overall, the album pulls from a variety of influences, including cinematic and classical influences, but they add in more modern influences with how they arrange their songs.
Forebear has this natural energy and passion that can only be felt when a band is really hitting their stride. It just happens when the music becomes organic and is an extension of the band, which is what this album showcases.
Without a doubt, Forebear will be a band to watch in 2015.