Kaddisfly - Set Sail the Praire

set sail the praire Although this is the fourth official release from Portland's Kaddisfly, it is really only the second with significant label support. Their previous record, "Buy our Intention, We'll Buy You a Unicorn" was released on Hopeless records to a minor wave of critical response, and with Sub City taking the helm here, doing what they've done with others (Thrice, The Weakerthans), they're thrusting the overdue five year veterans into an ocean of recognition.

In step with the album's theme (a worldwide journey of discovery to India, China, Norway, Jamaica, etc.), Set Sail references countless styles but is at its best when in the comfortable vein of melodic rock, building up and breaking back down (think Mae only more intense and not as girl-centered). The massive chorus of Campfire is later referenced in the ending of Birds before breaking into the scalding Clouds, whose bulbous bass and quick picking could easily be placed on the next Muse album. This song alone is worth the price of admission, and with other quality tracks, this is easily the most worthwhile un-lauded release of the year.

The album is entirely melodic but for a few shouts, an admirable avoidance of an overused trend (and there are definitely moments where other bands would have resorted to screaming rampages). Lead vocalist Ruff resides in the upper registry, and at times waivers slightly, perhaps on purpose, to keep the album on the edge, fresh and resilient, if not perfect.

Sometimes a direct flight, sometimes a meandering dinghy in the doldroms, Set Sail is always in touch with its surroundings, it knows when to make movement, and it knows when to enjoy the ride.