Keane "Strangeland"

        They say that “life is not a destination, but a journey,” and to be honest I think the journey on the Night Train was more rewarding than the arrival in this Strangeland; that’s just my opinion. I am pretty keane on the sound though; it is not a bad record, just nothing that really excites me. I am reminded of Augustana and even Springsteen-inspired Killers’ tunes when I listen to opener “You Are Young.” It could just be that I’m “Disconnected,” but I cannot put into words why this is one of their best songs on this record. “Watch How You Go” is a siren song of a unsuccessful relationship; there is no bitter taste though. Not just because of a sound reminiscent to the era of the Beatles, but because he sings the words with love, and wishes her the best in her life. While on memory lane he passes the subtly electronic-tinged "Southern Light Café" to a time where melodies were simpler, but very memorable. The next song is their bounciest, and is directed toward anyone who needs a helping hand in what sounds like an honest declaration of friendship while “On The Road,” or falling off of it. It almost sounds like the end of another world as the “Black Rain” begins to fall, but in war everyday can feel like the world is at its end; every second. This epiphany is scary, and priceless when your experience is “over.” The rain had changed colors and tone, yet still just as ravishing as the previous track, and formed a “Neon River” full of undulating electronic subtleties. “Day Will Come” is an upbeat song revolving around the persistence of pursuing a dream; not a mere pipe, but a ladder to help reach the sky. There is a lot to relate to from a lyrical standpoint: “We dream hard, we shoot high/ Sometimes our fingers graze the sky/But we can’t hold on.” If success is imminent, it might not be “In Your Own Time,” but it will be the right time; success takes hard work, talent, and also patience. Even though there is nothing particularly special about “Sea Fog,”except making sea travel more cumbersome. Favorites: Disconnected, Southern Light Café, On The Road, Black Rain, and Day Will Come.