Album Review Reviews

Review:: Fathoms | Vinyl Thief

Ever since the 2012 release of Rebel Hill – EP, the wait for Vinyl Thief’s first album release has been tantalizing, and it is finally here. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Vinyl Thief is a group of self-taught musicians storming the indie-rock and electronica community. Their debut album Fathoms showcases a beautiful blend of lead singer Grayson Proctor’s edgy vocals fused with electrifying synth beats.  The band has put together ten songs that add a little bit of rock and little bit of EDM to everyone’s library.

After listening to Fathoms, it’s hard to believe the quartet started out in an old church sanctuary.  Fathoms is like an intimate concert between you and Vinyl Thief.   Every song starts off with its own signature electronic beat pulling you into Proctor’s trance-like voice, then soars into a loud and edgy chorus.  The album has an incredible flow as you transition from track to track, coming together to form a dynamic electro-rock story.

From slow, dreamy to upbeat, edgy tunes, Fathoms gives you an eclectic number of options to listen to. The instant hit “Middle of the Night” makes you feel like you’re about to embark on an adventure as the grittiness in Proctor’s vocals launches you into unexpected bass drop. The acoustic driven “London”plays with the lead singer’s killer wide range, and makes you want to visit London, England for real. The first verse of the song depicts the relaxing and mellow aura of taking in your first sight of London. Then an unexpected chorus expresses the liveliness and excitement that washes over when you get to the heart of the city.  Another track worth mentioning is “Rebel Hill” where the band experiments with their Nashville roots by adding a flair of blues to it.  While it is subtly mixed into song, it actually ties the whole song together and gives it a more rock n’ roll vibe.

Bands who can successfully blend the distinctness of indie rock and electronic music are few and far between. Vinyl Thief helps close the gap with their unique approach in Fathoms.  The band can easily fit in at indie music festivals and giant EDM concerts. Though the album stills needs a little more input of Grayson Proctor’s gritty side, Vinyl Thief has delivered an exceptionally solid first full length album.  As long as Vinyl Thief can keep their indie rockiness in harmony with their electronic style, it won’t be much of a surprise to see them playing sold out shows soon.

Release Date: July 22nd, 2014
Rating: 4/5
Runtime: ~36 minutes
Recommended Tracks: Middle of the Night, London

Track listing:
1. Fathoms
2. Smooth
3. London
4. Faces
5. Slow Down
6. Middle of the Night
7. Compact
8. Rebel Hill
9. Stop Motion
10. Alright

 

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