WMP March Album of the Month

Between The Trees
The Story and the Song

Bonded Records, April 2007
Genre: indie/modern rock
Official Site: www.betweenthetrees.net
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
 

Formed in early 2005, this Orlando based band has swept the scene with their unforgettable hooks and catchy lyrics. Between The Trees, developed in the west side of Orlando, began with lead vocalist Ryan Kirkland and the brothers, Josh and Jeremy Butler. In the early stages this small trio started writing and performing at small venues in the local Orlando area. Soon after, in Spring 2005, they chose a keyboardist, Wes Anderson, to join them in this venture. Realizing a need for another guitarist, Between The Trees soon sought after Brad Kriebel, a close friend and great musician. After finalizing the line up, this band began to write and collaborate different styles of music. The group has become known for their ability to create a common ground with the fans through their music using life experiences and friendship as their foundation. This is the unique and talented group known as Between The Trees.

Overwhelmingly mature with since and heartfelt music, vocals and lyrics. Did I mention all 5 of the members except for one are still teenagers? I don't mean like 13 and 14, they are older teens, 18-19. It seems Between the Trees could have taken the easy way out and fallen trap to the teen angst of emo but the maturity rose above the cookie cutter genre and sat them above the pack. The album is full of intense indie/modern rock potential hits. The keyboards seem to push these bands into obvious mainstream comparisons but I won't do so because I think what these guys are creating is original and fresh. The first four tracks are a great example.  From melodic overtones to power pop, Between the Trees is taking a diverse mix and making it their own. One of my favorite tracks is "Words." It shows the diversity within the band with a great hook to hold you into the chorus and an overall melodic nature mixed within the choruses. In my opinion, a musician plays music for our enjoyment, but an artist plays music they want you to feel. Between the Tree is a band full of artists.

The lyrics are full of that same compassion. The band is associated with the organization, To Write Love on Her Arms. Holding true to that the band deals often with the topics of the listener feeling alone and often beaten down by others. Several tracks hit hard with an epidemic effecting teens all over the world, depression. Between the Trees is never show to show their listeners the way out, Jesus. The album shines light into the darkness and also offers a direction for the remedy.  This album can be therapeutic and would encourage those dealing with cutting, depression or feelings of abandonment to take a listen. Other songs lift women up.  The song "She Is" is a great tribute to the person that even in my life turned on that first bit of light everyday, my mom.

This is a very much needed album, musically, vocally and lyrically!