Dudes, This is Major

Banking off the acclaim of their self-titled release, prog/pop/indie/fun group, Fang Island, has proven they can throw together a couple well-rounded tracks, maintaining the wild, chant-y sound they’re known for. Major, much like how the bandmembers describes themselves, really is like “everyone high-fiving everyone.” Energy is key.

The band kicks off with “Kindergarten,” which is one part video game intro and and two parts piano ballad. The type of folksy, anthemic vocals by Jason Bartell really establish the record as more of a songwriting-centric album, rather than an all-out prog-a-thon.

“Sisterly,” which was recently remixed by quintessential 8-bit speed punks, Anamanaguchi, is a fun, almost 90’s alternative rock-inspired jam. It seems like the band really hunkered down and planned out their melodies. Oddly enough, the prog is still evident with the bouncy, Rush-like happiness swirling around the track.

“Make Me” is a bit of departure for the band. It’s a straight 90’s pop dance-a-long, which wouldn’t be weird in the middle of a Farrelly Brothers flick, just when Ben Stiller makes up/breaks up with whatever hottie that happens to stumble along.

There’s not too much variety in Major, which really isn’t a bad thing. The band is all about fun and pumping out cute, wild but honest songs you wouldn’t mind throwing during a game of beer pong with your friends. Like their self-titled release, Fang Island manages to get their listeners amped and ready to take on the world. That’s all that really matters, anyway.