DEATH SHIPS

First off, The Death Ships, “Seeds of Devastation,” is not the hardcore metal album I expected it to be from the package. Instead, I found breathy Alan-Parsons-style vocals and pop Americana music poised for Adult Contemporary FM playlists. The band,
on Undertow Music, is tight but subtle. The tempo shifts and interplay between the vocals and the guitars moves quietly, without drama. In fact, I’d like it if a few of the songs had more build to them—without that
tension, the record can get kind of “same-y.” Still, on the whole this is good Starbucks rock. Simple, nonintrusive, and perfect for small get-togethers with friends. It’s also probably good to pick up chicks to, which is important because the band is on tour!

For fans of David Gray, James Taylor, and Ryan Adams’ quieter moments.

Symmetrical Smile-Death Ships

City Never Sleeps-Death Ships

Great American-Death Ships

TOUR DATES:

Friday, Mar 2nd – Mojo’s – Columbia, MO With The Broken West
Saturday, Mar 3rd – The Picador – Iowa City, IA* With The Broken West
Sunday, Mar 4th – The Pizza Parlor, Rock Island, IL* With Broken West & The Silent Years
Thursday, Mar 8th – The M-Shop – Ames, IA
Thursday, Mar 15th – SxSW @ BD Riley’s – Austin, TX*

BONUS LINKS:

The second Adult Swim hip hop mix

The Subjects – I Could Never Tune

Arctic Monkeys-Live at Washington, D.C.’s 9:30 Club (2006)