Ten Million Lights
Into
Nothing
(self-released)
The ultimatum. The word alone sends chills down my spine. I guess I’m too wishy-washy. I don’t think in terms of all or nothing all of the time. Not only do I shy away from such definitive thought, but from people who think in such terms. I simply don’t get it. In some ways, I wish I did. However, ultimatums are relationship sabotage. A restricted choice that generally pits one person against another – as if one cannot accept both. I can understand an ultimatum in some circumstances, but life is rarely so simple. “Swaying,” the extended first song from Ten Million Lights’ new third LP, Into Nothing, encapsulates frustration at being pinned down by restrictive choices in a very relatable way.
“Swaying” is perfectly titled, as it has a swaying musical quality, especially the extended instrumental dreaminess that makes up the final half of the song. It shares a similar back and forth vibe to Slowdive’s early instrumental “Avalyn II.” The first half, more reminds me of the old Jane’s Addiction song “Summertime Rolls.” Despite the free-flowing swing of the music, there is a serious tension built up in the verses that releases in the defiant chorus. When Ryan Carroll spurts out a sneering “No way,” it is incredibly satisfying. One can sense a strong sarcasm as he sings “ooh, what’s it gonna be / the red pill or the green?”
Into Nothing is full of strong and memorable choruses. I’m particularly smitten with the Beach Boys-esque vocal melodies of the twisted two minute curiosity that is “Irreverence.” “Lights Out” also shares an ‘oohing’ and ‘ahhing’ chorus, along with a stuttering guitar riff that feels very comfortable for long time followers of this band. The first single, “Snowdrift,” includes their usual subdued vocal approach, but has an incredibly light musical touch that feels fresh and intriguing. My early favorite song is the melancholic “Wilder,” which captures the stifled feeling of being absolutely overwhelmed by something as to become speechless. It includes a dreamy rainy day reflection that I have always found incredibly alluring. The following song, “Shaky Man,” etches a similar vibe as it finds acceptance in the changing of the season and needing help.
If you’re looking for crunchier numbers, they are here in spades. The rollicking “On with the Show” begins with Russ Ellis’ lurking bassline and some serious buildup to another fantastic rousing chorus. Likewise, “Burn it all Down,” achieves exactly as the title suggests, while the urgent “Cherry Sun” has some serious squalling guitar fills throughout.
There is a bass-heavy murkiness in the sound of Into Nothing that reminds me of the old NW grunge days, and by that I mean before it became a buzz word. There was a dark and shadowy fear-laden NW indie rock sound that was equal parts no frills hard as nails rock, Led Zeppelin wizardry, and punk. “Hot Water,” the closing epic rocker, captures all of this and it sounds new and refreshing.
(https://tenmillionlights.bandcamp.com/)
