Arts & Entertainment

October releases indie-label 'Sale'

By Cheryl Stell
The Daily Cougar

Blue October has hit a high note with its debut release on Brando Records. History for Sale is the bandis first album since parting with Universal Records back in 2001. Being dropped from a major record label after only one year could have meant a meltdown for the group, but it seems to have been only a minor setback for this very talented and ambitious band.

Photo courtesy of Brando Records

Two years of hard work and dedication have landed Blue October a very well-rounded album. The words to songs like "Ugly Side," " Razorblade" and "Chameleon Boy" leave listeners pondering their own emotions, while the vocals, styles and musicianship of "Inner Glow," "Somebody" and "Come In Closer" bring to life Blue Octoberis array of capabilities. The albumis full-color booklet has all the lyrics and the disc contains a bonus multimedia program jam-packed with all kinds of pictures and fun stuff.

The album showcases vocalist and songwriter Justin Furstenfeldis talents throughout. From his deep lyrics to his range of vocal ability, he manages to draw you in and keep your attention. His lyrics are thought-provoking and itis interesting to learn about his life through listening to his music. His voice may remind you of Chris Martin of the band Coldplay, and his style is similar to the later days of The Cure.

Not only did Furstenfeld write and sing on the album, he also tickled the keys of the piano, strummed guitar (along with C. B. Hudson) and co-produced Sale with Blue Miller and David Castell.

Furstenfeld is not the only multitalented member of the band; the other members often trade off positions and instruments to create their magic. Tim Palmer (Scream Studios L.A.) gave the album his golden touch with the mixing.

The overall impression of the release is good and Blue Octoberis hard work and endurance has earned them a shining star. However, the album could have been a bit stronger if they would have left off some of the weaker songs like "Sexual Powertrip," "A Quiet Mind" and "3 Weeks, She Sleeps."

History for Sale was officially released on April 8, so you can be sure to find it at many local venues as well at www.brandorecords.com. You can read more about the history of the band, check out what theyive got going on or purchase their latest T-shirt in a groovy brown shade at www.blueoctober.com.

Blue October

History for Sale

Brando Records

The verdict: Let us hope history wonit repeat itself, and History for Sale will be one of many releases for this spark-filled band.
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