With the opening percussive groove and clean riffing of "Detox,"
Controlling the Famous effectively sets listeners up right away for what lies ahead on their excellent and unpretentious Militia Group debut,
Automatic City. A consistently enjoyable listen, their brand of melodic post-rock has subtle hints of technicality that might seem like indulgence in other bands, but for them remains wholly listenable and satisfyingly digestible throughout. You can simultaneously sing along to the often-dueling vocals of guitarists Max Hellmann and Johnny Collins, while tapping along lightly to the driving and smooth rhythms of Mike Schneider and
Brendan Hughes supporting them, as on tracks like "Heart Attack." As such,
Controlling the Famous manages to be altogether invigorating on a cohesive and refreshing album that owns no filler. From straightforward rock ("Easy Life"), pulsating desire ("Two Sides"), and nocturnal reflection ("Long Day"), the quartet performs with an organic, fluid efficiency that never falters. Sure, a comparison to the equally pleasing
Minus the Bear would be somewhat relevant, but the band's music has enough charm to stand strong on its own. While the band may have crafted the album around themes of urban living,
Automatic City is a sonically smooth and light listen that is far from any of the implied chaos associated with city life. Though the lyrics may suggest otherwise, if this is what living in Los Angeles sounds like, consider a seat on the next flight to LAX booked. ~ Corey Apar