Hailing from Montclair, New Jersey, indie rock band Pinegrove’s new release Cardinal has furthered their unique sound and defined them as a band.

The band released their sophomore effort under Run for Cover Records. The band’s last album Everything So Far, lived up to its name. It contained the band’s previously released 21 tracks, and left first-time listeners with a strong first impression.

Cardinal differs in that it consists of only eight tracks and has a similar feel, but remains reflective of the band’s growth as musicians.

The record’s overall sound is similar to classic alternative guitar-heavy rock bands of the 1990s, but mixed with indie acoustic music. The album also sounds similar to an album recorded in a basement. It is clearly a unique type of recording, seldom used in polished pop music, but the almost-unprofessional recording style adds a sense of authenticity and intimacy to the band’s sound. It almost feels as if the listener is hearing the band perform the tracks live.

It is also worth mentioning the lead singer and guitarist, Evan Stephens Hall contributes to this vibe. Hall has a unique tone to his voice, which while likely untrained, is essential to the band’s message and overall aesthetic.

The track “Old Friends,” arguably the strongest song, kicks off the album with its catchy rhythm and signature line “every outcome is such a come down.”

“Then Again” also stands out, clearly drawing inspiration from the classic rock band feel. The upbeat anthem with the lively electric guitar has the ability to lift one out of a bad mood.

“New Friends,” then brings the album’s story full-circle as the song ends with the message, “I resolve to make new friends. I liked the old ones, but I fucked up, so I’ll start again.”

Cardinal is the perfect length for the style of music and writing Pinegrove uses. If the songs were any longer, they would probably start to blend together, becoming forgettable, due to the fact that the record has a consistent, similar sound across the board. Instead, the songs perfectly flow from track to track, and create an overall enjoyable listening experience.

With the release of Cardinal, Pinegrove successfully defined themselves to listeners. One finishes the album feeling like they really know the band and the type of musicians they want to be. Pinegrove’s unique blend of different styles and genres creates their own sound, and should thrust them into the indie spotlight as a band with tremendous potnential.

Rating: 4.3/5