Somos is a four-piece band from Boston, Mass., who refuses to fit into any mold or trend in the scene. The band’s debut record, Temple of Plenty, is nothing short of amazing. Although the record feels very catchy and melodic, there is a hint of a punk-rock attitude with band. Basically, the members aren’t afraid to get loud and in your face at times. Allowing them to do so are some punchy drums and big guitar parts. It’s really hard to compare Somos’ overall sound to anyone; but after a few listens, I get subtle recollections of Transit, Punchline, Into It. Over It. (full band) – and even some Armor for Sleep. Temple of Plenty is catchy, melodic, fast-paced and full of nostalgia. The record opens with “Familiar Theme,” instantly showing off the playful melodies present throughout the entire record. It’s a great opener, as it’s simple and catchy. “Domestic” picks things up a bit and touches on the more punchy, aggressive side of Somos. Although the song is a lot more in your face than “Familiar Theme,” it is equally as melodic and catchy. It’s truly incredible how this band weaves in and out of chorus and verse so seamlessly. “Dead Wrong” manages to bring even more sharp hooks than “Domestic.” The guitar work and melodies in this song are coated with nostalgia, and you’ll find yourself bobbing your head along as soon as the drums come in.
“Lives of Others” makes use of some delay on the guitars. This track really takes you by surprise coming after the first three. It contains a pretty poppy chorus that quickly gets loud before joining back up with the delayed guitar. The song makes a big bang before fading out in a calming manor. “When You Pass” has some of the most catchy vocal melodies I’ve heard in punk rock since The Menzingers’ On the Impossible Past. By this point in the record, you will notice every song constantly changes as it goes on, holding your attention the entire time. “Strangest Example” is a roller coaster of a song. It has quieter, melodic and some very loud and faster parts. How this band constantly combines complete opposite vibes and makes it work will always baffle me.
Track seven, “Lifeline,” has a bit more of an indie-rock feel. The song also features one of my favourite endings on Temple of Plenty because it’s driven by some soaring guitar riffs. “Distorted Vision” has nostalgia written all over it, especially the chorus. Every single second of this song is extremely catchy. Closing the record out on a high note is “Before You Merge.” I feel this was a cool song to put last because it’s probably the first Somos song I would show people. It’s just a wonderful representation of what this band sounds like. The song also contains some guitar work that is very reminiscent of Taking Back Sunday and Motion City Soundtrack’s earlier work. “Before You Merge” is the perfect Somos album closer.
Overall, it’s hard to throw these guys into any certain genre of music. All I can do is tell you to check Somos out if you enjoyed any of the bands I mentioned above. At the same time, don’t go into the record expecting it to sound exactly like Transit, Punchline, Into It. Over It., Armor For Sleep, Taking Back Sunday or Motion City Sountrack; moments on Temple of Plenty will just simply remind you of the things you love about those bands. Overall, Somos has its own sound, and it’s damn catchy. The thing I love most about this record is that there is not one filler song – or moment. Temple of Plenty is nine songs that keep your attention the second they start to the very second they end. I dare you to pick out one thing you dislike about this record if you’re a fan of any of the bands above. You probably can’t. Somos rules and is going to do great things this year. Be sure to check out the record on March 25 via Tiny Engines.
