Jump Start Records – Release Date: 1/27/15

In January of this year, All Eyes West released its second album, called Doomer. While its title might seem somewhat foreboding, the record is anything but. With this release, the band simply builds upon the framework of its first album, further broadening their sound and integrating new influences. Doomer begins with a track called “Lie In Wait,” which features an ascending melody that rises to an urgent chorus. The song spotlights the vocal talents of singer/bassist Justin Miller and also demonstrates the band’s ability to craft songs that are uniquely structured. “Plastic Hearts” is up next and it starts with a hauntingly catchy verse that gives way to a shout-along chorus. It’s easily one of the record’s strongest entries and would be an excellent choice for a first single. It’s followed by “West Thirteenth,” a track that is enjoyably reminiscent of Samiam and showcases a multitude of impressive riffs, courtesy of guitarist Jeff Dean. Further points of interest include the post-punk stomp of “From Under,” the melodic rocker “Make the Morning” and the blistering, rhythm-heavy anthem “Overtime.” All Eyes West has definitely broadened the scope of their ‘90s-influenced rock on Doomer, incorporating a variety of contemporary styles and applying distinctive songwriting. Their sound continues to evolve as they tour and play shows at a frequent pace, taking the music in exciting directions with each step. Check out the album’s second song below, called “Plastic Hearts.”

[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/02-Plastic-Hearts.mp3|titles= “Plastic Hearts”]