New York’s Les Savy Fav continue to exhibit their maturing smart punk sound in their latest effort Let’s Stay Friends. I say smart punk because the sound continues to exemplify the band’s unique and diverse, yet quick and ferocious style with compelling, story tale-like lyrics.

This maturing sound is evident throughout most of the album. While the single “The Equestrian” sounds like past styles, songs like “Patty Lee” and “Comes and Goes” offer an example of the band’s differing approach. While the sound for the most part still features blazing guitar chords which help them keep their identity as a punk bad, other parts, like the slow tempo duet in “Comes and Goes” give a refreshing, different feeling.

Unfortunately, at times, it feels like the vocals of front man Tim Harrington somewhat limit the album’s ability of reaching that next level or plateau of one of this year’s best albums. I’m not saying I don’t like his vocals, but at some points, they just don’t feel as if they flow with the rest of the sound.

Regardless, the album still joins the ranks as another successful work in an already impressive discography. And I must say I’m certainly excited to see them on October 6 with Arcade Fire and LCD Soundsystem at Randal’s Island in NYC.

Rating:

Check Out:
The Equestrian
What Would Wolves Do?

Categories: Album Reviews
Tags: Les Savy Fav