Reviews

Solarcade blends progressive with pop to create a soothing album

Date published: 7/3/2009

BY SHARON TITUS

On their new EP, "Songs for the Gathering," the musical partnership Solarcade provides an interesting new contribution to the world of alternative pop.

After eight years together and the unusual involvement of multiple outside musicians, lyricist-vocalist Paul Van and composer-guitarist Tony Pomilla have created music with a heavy impact on their first album.

Van said in a press release accompanying the album that he uses music "to explore life's themes." This mind-set shows in his lyrics, which are distinctly poetic and original.

Pomilla, meanwhile, plays guitar with a slightly classic-rock sound that blends nicely with the alternative vibe of the album.

The first track, "Rise," is perhaps the most inspirational on the album--an anthem of a song, it immediately lifts the listener up as it launches into Van's powerful voice and lyrics.

"Artshow" is a short, sudden spurt of strong music, touched with light, electronic undertones.

"Oceans to Oceans," meanwhile, shows off Van's voice and Pomilla's specialty: powerful guitar riffs full of feeling.

Overall, "Songs for the Gathering" contains unique vocals with upbeat choruses. A power-pop backbeat heard throughout the seven-track album allows Solarcade to simultaneously claim direct connections to classic-rock influences as well as the modern-day pop genre.

Don't believe it? Give "Songs for the Gathering" a listen.

Sharon Titus is a rising junior at North Stafford High School.

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Date published: 7/3/2009