If you're in the right mood, it can get right through to your inner self.
Hailing from the US, Commonwealth are a reasonably new four-piece who are unlikely to ever come out with an uplifting Pop record, certainly any time soon. In fact, if 'Everyone Around Me' is any guide, they have a good chance of speaking to a disenfranchised generation if enough word gets out about the music they're making.
As you may have guessed, Commonwealth are a very serious young band. Imagine Coldplay with more balls and aggression, or maybe 30 Seconds To Mars with less money, and you'll be in the right ballpark, although I very much doubt that Commonwealth actually play ball as they might accidentally enjoy themselves.
It's not all doom and gloom though, as within the album there are still plenty of cool moments wrapped up in the anguish. Tyler St. Clair is the type of vocalist who pours himself wholeheartedly into every track, but he also has one of those voices that I can see some just not getting on with. Personally, I like him as his tortured half-shouting stays just the right side of melody whilst still conveying the power of the songs. There's not much in the way of guitar work to speak of either, but Bryce Everson's drums are used effectively to punctuate the songs which helps each one rise through meandering verses to often memorable choruses.
'Everyone Around Me' is an album that's right in the middle for me – I don't love it, but then again, I certainly don't dislike it. The intensity can be a bit wearing at times, however, if you're in the right mood, it can also get right through to your inner self. I hate to admit that I might be a bit old for this group, but I feel Commonwealth will definitely find an appreciative audience in the colleges and universities.
They are certainly worth checking out if you like anguished Alternative Rock that means every single bloody word it says, probably hates you and pretty much everything else, and wishes it had never been born.
Alan Holloway
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