Producer: Adam Nelson, Engineer: Adam Nelson, Tracks: Straight Bliss; Jupiter; Small Bird; Deadmen Lovers; Climb; Instinct; Psychopath; Silver & Tin
Their bio says they take their influences from a variety of alternative sources, but doesn't name any. One listen to the opening track will cut through all the other potential influences and go straight back to the Beatles. Overall this is a pleasant, if at times moody, pop album that's a little rough around the edges. There are other influences kicking around, especially since Catherine Noble brings a strong female vocal presence into the mix. A couple of tunes recall Jefferson Airplane/Starship mixed with a Seattle sort of sound. Grendel, by the way, are from Chicago (though most of the band members moved there from North Carolina).
Rating : ***