Eight people might seem like a lot for a band, but the San Francisco based Photons obviously disagree.  Large bands are a rarity partly because so many divergent voices can cause chaos and muddle the overall artistic vision.  However, this is the very reason why the Photons are so successful.  By blending so many various elements together, including bassoons and clarinets, they create an eclectic and robust sound that is entirely unique.

The band has drawn comparisons to a wide variety of bands including the Walkmen, The Strokes, Arcade Fire and The Decemberists.  I find it hard to pin them to one comparison because their music is so diverse.  Cease and Desist for example, feels like a mash up of Arcade Fire and Black Kids.  It works really well, and adeptly combines an indie vibe with the appeal of pop.  This Must be Love, on the other hand, is reminiscent of the Smiths, and lead vocalist James Parrish sounds an awful lot like Morrissey.  Moreover, the final song Goodbye for Now feels like a more melodic version of Modest Mouse.  Despite having a diverse variety of sounds the band always stays within themselves retaining their signature sound.  It’s a delicate balance that is executed to perfection.

This juxtaposition of sounds, both within individual songs, and between tracks is the bands biggest strength.  They take a variety of stylistic choices and a variety of instruments and mash them together.  The end result is a self titled EP, overflowing with charm and quality.  It has a bit of indie and a bit of pop and a whole lot of good music.  I would advise all those music snobs out there to add Photons to their iPod’s now so they can say they knew about them before anyone else.  It truly feels like it’s only a matter of time before they make it big.

This Must Be Love

Animals