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Nothing Is Sound

by Switchfoot

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Switchfoot is the classic eight-year "overnight success" story. With a pocketful of radio hits, award nominations, and multi-platinum status, the band's Beautiful Letdown in 2003 introduced Switchfoot to a whole new world. But let's keep in mind that prior to the massive success, the San Diego-based band honed its chops with constant touring and three solid independent albums. Nothing Is Sound lives up to expectations with plenty of guitar-driven alternative rock bound to keep everyone happy. And that is the irony here as lead man Jon Foreman continues to sing about loneliness, alienation, and disenchantment in the land of plenty. "Lonely Nation," "Stars," and "The Fatal Wound" paint a bleak picture of a generation gripped by greed but remaining unsatisfied. Yet with every dark stroke, Foreman casts an eye toward a brighter tomorrow with hopeful lines like "I don't believe the emptiness/I'm looking for the kingdom coming down" in "Happy Is A Yuppie Word" and "Though the world is flawed these scars will heal/We are one tonight" in "We Are One Tonight." Foreman's ever-improving songwriting is enhanced by rich, lush production and a driving rhythm section of bassist Tim Foreman and drummer Chad Butler. Newer members Jerome Fontamillas (keys) and Andrew Shirley (guitars) fill out the empty spots well, giving Switchfoot a shimmering sonic glow on this superb release. This is another leap forward for one of rock's most promising bands. --Michael Lyttle