If nothing else, The Standard Model are earnest. It takes dedication and heart to form a band in 2001 and never put out your debut until 2009. Persistence has paid off, though, for the New York band. Recorded over several months last year, Are You Alive? brings to disc some of the best-known songs to fans of the band’s live show.
“Weightless (I Wonder)” has a warm, down-tempo, dreamy feel to it, and “Already” burns slowly but brightly thanks to steady work on the guitar and bass. A similar sort of pace begins “Together At the Same Time” before it kicks off into something altogether more forceful. Album-closer “In This Driveway” might be The Standard Model’s most vibrant musical statement, though. Starting quietly and building to a simmering intensity, the song’s dancing bass line and some well-placed backing vocals give the song texture and interest. Overall, the band’s tight, dynamic rhythms and chiming guitar tones drive the tracks dominated by Franco Franus’ vocals—and therein lies a weakness of Are You Alive?. The vocals, while distinct and intriguing, sometimes don’t allow the music itself to breathe and show off. If knowing when to sing is important, knowing when not to sing can be just as vital.
Played with definite purpose, the songs on Are You Alive? showcase a band intent on their musical journey. It will be worth watching to see where The Standard Model go next.
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