All The Right Stuff

Reigning from Los Angeles, the Devics released their latest ten tracks on Push The Heart. The quartet consists of singer Sara Lov, bassist Ed Maxwell, drummer Evan Schnabel and Dustin O’Halloran on guitar and keyboards. Their sound is atmospheric and often placid, however their original embellishments separate them from the rest.Lov provides sultry vocals to the dreamy “”Lie To Me.”” Running arpeggios on the piano provide a whimsical aura that conflict with the chorus, “”Lie to me/Make like you love me/Lie to me/C’mon it’s easy.”” Tranquil vocals and accordion-esque harmonies allow subtle enhancements to shine (including telephone rings and percussion resembling a typewriter) on “”Secret Message to You.”” Bonus points should be granted for creativity, however the repetitive nature of this piece lacks any build lyrically nor compositionally.

ame “”Just One Breath”” includes a wealth of easy comparisons. Lov’s vocals mirror a blend of Leigh Nash (Sixpence None the Richer) and Hope Sandoval (Mazzy Star), while the bass line is wholly reminiscent to Radiohead’s “”Paranoid Android.”” “”Distant Radio”” also includes this blend of lyrics combined, this time, with consistent guitar strumming that makes for a brighter, fuller sound.

ame O’Halloran lends his vocals to “”Song for a Sleeping Girl,”” with Lov adding to the chorus. Standard piano, bass and drums allow the vocal harmonies to shine. “”If You Cannot See”” also includes this vocal combination. The chord progression is beautiful without being overly predictable, and is fully highlighted halfway through the track with the harmonic climax.

ame The appeal of Push the Heart rests not solely on beauty, which is indeed abundant, but carries with it unique ornamentations that define the Devics.