Album Gives Listeners the Gran Run a Ronde

L.A.-based Gran Ronde has earned recognition opening for acts including The Walkmen and We Are Scientists. Their debut album, Secret Rooms, however, is similar in sound to The National, The Editors and Interpol with vocals reminiscent of Robert Smith.The progression of the album is monotone and anti-climactic. The driving energy of “Rooms” provides a break from monotony, however it doesn’t take long before pounding percussion and electric guitar take over again. While each song delivers solid guitar riffs, and enjoyable beats, it’s difficult to find anything unique. The lack of progression in Secret Rooms may make listeners think they’ve been listening to the same song for the entire album.

One would think that strong instrumentals and piercing vocals would make the cut on every iPod. However, with sounds and vocals that are familiar of every post-punk brooding band, it’s hard to make yourself rise above and stand out. Although extremely catchy, this album is on par with the background noise you’d find at a bar that serves Pabst Blue Ribbon specials.