Upon first listen, this offering from Chicago quartet BLACK CANVAS is difficult to become immersed in. However, with a few more listens it quickly shows itself to be an interesting record.
‘December Snow’ is a five track release that combines thick grungy guitar sounds with Anthony Green-esque vocals, a combination which can take getting used to. Opener ‘Stay (Where You Are)’ does little to excite with plain guitar lines and a rather generic refrain.
The other four tracks on the record seem to be much stronger, and do a great job of showcasing unique sound born from a plethora of influences.
Second track ‘Fences’ has a distinct Pearl Jam feel to it, while ‘Cabin Song’ would not sound out of place on a Circa Survive record.
Black Canvas have managed to create an extremely unique sound and showed promise in the strong release that is ‘December Snow’, a thoroughly good record.
DANIEL GRIFFIN