The breezy, sweet, laid-back sound on
Socratic's
Spread the Rumors is a definite change from their previous album,
Lunch for the Sky, which was harder and more aggressive. It's a change for the better, as softer seems more suitable for the group, and the change in direction could indicate that the band is in the process of finding its true sound. The question is, is this quieter approach too sedate? First time listeners will probably have no complaints, but those who have listened to the band from the beginning may not be pleased with this lighter, more pop-oriented affair. There's also the argument that by leaving their rock inclinations behind,
Socratic have also lost a bit of bite. The songs on
Spread the Rumors may be catchy and endearing, but the album seems to lack substance as it goes on. None of the songs stand out or grab the listener, and while the performances are steady, nothing stands out as a central focus. (Of course, that also means that nothing is out of place in a bad way, either.) That said, there are plenty of nuanced moments on the album that makes for a pleasant listen. The vocals provided by
Duane Okun are smooth and delicate, and the band has no trouble harmonizing with for bright, cheerful choruses. (With the exception of drummer
Tom Stratton, each member --
Okun, bassist
Lou Panico, pianist
Vinny D'Amico, and guitarist
Kevin Bryan -- all lend their vocal talents to refrains throughout the album.) The group also works well as an instrumental ensemble, as best demonstrated on "Constant Apology," a catchy pop tune whose mixing provides excellent balance and gives each bandmember a place in the spotlight. Everyone's performance can be heard clearly, and it's fun to hear how they all fit together. However, the album does have a few pitfalls. "Janis Joplin Hands" is the hardest song on
Spread the Rumors, but still manages to lack the bite necessary to make a solid impression, and "Long Distance Calls" is a poignant piece about the fallout of divorce that is marred by a plaintive (but utterly ineffective) delivery that sucks the emotion out of what could be a touching exercise in introspection. Like the rest of
Spread the Rumors, it's a soft, understated, and good listen that lacks enough punch to be truly memorable. ~ Katherine Fulton