Some bands are easy to pinpoint, when it comes to musical style. Others are a bit harder to pinpoint, but still fall easily into a genre' of some type. Still others are nearly non-categorizeable. Such is the case with MuteMath. Part of the reason for this is that MuteMath caters to fans of so many different styles. No matter what your musical preference, chances are you will find something about MuteMath you like. From elements of new wave, electronica, and straight-up rock, there is something for everyone here. Paul Meany and Co. have found in this self-titled release, one of the strongest releases of 2006. The album catapults the listener in with its second track, "Typical" (also a show starter on most dates), and doesn't let up from there. MuteMath's synth-laced rock, along with Paul Meany's Sting-like vocals, pulls the listener in and out of songs with passion and promise. Deeply insightful lyrics give way to a vintage sound that is refreshing and original in its delivery.
What is also obviously apparent upon spinning this cd is the superior musicianship contained in all four members of the band. Nowhere is this more evident than the musical breakdown of "Break the Same", which is also one of the stronger points of their live show. Other unforgettable songs include, "Chaos", "Plan B", and "Control", the first two of which appeared on the band's EP debut, "Reset".
This is perhaps one of the best albums to be released by a non-metal band in 2006. The band, currently touring with Jonezetta opening, has succeeded in doing an album that does not cater to the record labels (Warner Bros. waited nearly a year before releasing this album), nor does it succumb to falling into a convenient category. Other bands should take note from this four-piece outfit from New Orleans, LA., as to how a band successfully does it their own way, and gets the respect they deserve as a result of it.
