The Paragraphs

The Paragraphs — “It’s Always Never”

ARTIST: THE PARAGRAPHS
ALBUM: IT’S ALWAYS NEVER
LABEL: SELF-RELEASE
RELEASE DATE: AUGUST 25, 2017

The Paragraphs released It’s Always Never last August, and it’s got something for everyone thanks to its versatility.

San Diego-based rock band The Paragraphs prove that their sound is timeless with their third album. They’ve been a staple in the San Diego music scene since drummer Mike Hunt founded the band in 2009. They were named Best Rock Band at the 2014 San Diego Music Awards for good reason: Their albums are loud, carefree, and impressive. It’s Always Never shows the band has evolved with its subtly different feel from their previous work.

The first track, “Warm Bodies,” transports the listener back to the 90s, with the perfect mix of grungy vocals and smooth guitar riffs. Right off the bat, it’s clear that this album has a more melancholy sound to it than their previous albums. The second track, “High As Pie,” will make you nod your head along immediately, with dreamy guitar chords similar to those in “Warm Bodies.” It sets the tone for the rest of the album. The fourth track, “Better Half” keeps things interesting with its contrast from the opening tracks–it’s a beach rock sound that is indicative of much of San Diego’s indie rock scene these days. The final track, “Have No Friends,” ends It’s Always Never on a hauntingly touching note with hymn-like vocals that will stay with you for the rest of the night.

The Paragraphs having an upcoming show at The Casbah on Saturday, January 27. You’ll want to catch this show just to hear the tracks from the new album alone. Hearing their previous albums’ material will be a cherry on top.

You can find It’s Always Never on Spotify and Bandcamp.

REVIEW BY: KAITLYN GREENE

ListenSD