Ember Coast

It’s nice to finally hear a local band living up to its hype. With Up, Ember Coast has proven it has what it takes to play with the nationals. The disc kicks off with the catchiest and most radio-friendly “On My Mark.” Vocalist Sean Brennan uses breath control to add rhythm and grab the listener’s attention, and the band demonstrates a good grasp of melody and the art of writing catchy hooks. “Waking Time at Night” feels like the most honest song on Up. The music coupled with the lyrical content impresses the tune with emotional gravity. Ember Coast hands you the wrench and lets you twist your stomach into knots. Plus, it has a bitchin’ guitar solo. Though the band does have a few tracks with some ambiance à la Cooper Temple Clause, it has the energy of the Ataris. Ember Coast is gearing up to be the next Saves the Day.