In a world of interchangeable pop-punk and indie-emo bands, there is little comfort in knowing that a CD that you can listen to the entire way through is rare. However, all hope is not lost, because you have found one of those few great albums. Soulcracker stand out in the genre of rock by being familiar but not boring; everything you'd expect, but not chiche. Soulcraker reached fame, or at least infamy- on the VH1 reality TV show "Bands On The Run". What the TV show lacked was a focus on the actual music of the competing bands. You haven't really heard Soulcracker unless you've seen them live or heard the CD's- Bands On The Run did not showcase the music, but more of the behind the scenes drama.
This album is a great energy boost, especially if you need a break from the same tired bands. It's fun to sing along to, and every track will take it's turn as your favorite. Although I've had this CD for about 2 years, I still have it in constant rotation in my stereo.
Not being an expert, it's challenging to put a label on Soulcracker or even to describe the sound. They basically just rock. The lead singer, Sutton, has a gravelly voice that is addicting. There is occasionaly another vocalist, Beastie, who layers melodies and sings contrasting parts. Soulcracker can pull this off- it gives the vocals an edge that you're not used to hearing. Throw that on top of catchy guitar riffs and a punk-infused drum style, and you have one fun CD.
Another bonus to the CD is the bonus track. After the last song, you can hear Sutton playing acoustic guitar and singing an original song, and then he wanders into playing "I've Got You, Babe" which is interesting because he starts singing jibberish when he doesn't know the words. In the background, a cell phone rings and one of the other band members answers it and has a conversation. (Apparently, a girl broke her toe and wants to use Ramsey- one of the guitarists'- tuning fork... listen for yourself.)
Basically, it's an all-around good CD from beginning to end, with something that just about everybody would like. I encourage you to listen for yourself- I'm sure you'll become a fan. It's a great "investment" to make, because unlike most CD's with one or two good songs, every song on "At Last, For You" stands out.