Some times you have to wonder what is wrong with the music industry when so many really good bands go unsigned by even a decent indie label.

San Diego's Lanterns is no exception. At times during their latest EP Apocalypse Youth the likes of Jawbreaker and Burning Airlines are channeled and could be sited as clear musical influences for the band. Sure, following in the footsteps of legends like Blake Schwarzenbach and J. Robbins is nothing new in this scene but Lanterns just seem to do things, for the most part, just right.

The majority of Apocalypse Youth just sounds like a great mix of distortion and catchy cuts not unlike the days of early Sonic Youth. The opener 'Midnight Psalms' draws you in with its warmth, jumpy appeal, and the sound and feel of a Smoking Popes song while track three 'Creation Myth' brings to mind the great mid '90s indie rock bands that always made us feel giddy inside.

The only sore spot of the album comes with its closer 'Electric Warrior Kisses' a song more interested in distortion and noise than the music and melody. I will admit most great albums even have a unlikeable throwaway track but come on guys this is only a 5 song EP! Its a shame, really. Lucky for them, I overlooked this misstep due to my enjoyablement of the first four tracks. Lets just hope other will too.


 

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