How do you manage to make popular music and stay original at the same time? That’s the question that plagues just about every indie band at some point. On their second album, The Front, The Bradbury Press appears to be looking for the elusive answer. On some songs, the Seattle band can sound like any number of mid-tempo outfits that have hit the airwaves since the mid-90’s. But then they manage to throw in enough curveballs to prove that they’re doing their best to keep away from the cookie cutter.

On The Front, they’re at their best when they step away from Creed territory and let Dave Brewer’s jangling guitar and the impressive drumming of Greg Garcia drive the action. Cuts like “Drown,” Better Day” and “Falling Up” catch a spark right from the opening salvo. When that happens, it seemingly provides fresh inspiration for singer Darren Golden and the music takes off. (Brewer actually takes over lead vocals on three tracks, including “Falling Up.”)

Throughout the CD there are nice touches, particularly the organ appearances on multiple tracks. The faux-country on “Country Ditty” provides a fun change of pace, thanks especially to the electric banjo work (provided by guest James Homey of The Clumsy Lovers). It’s also a nice sign that The Bradbury Press aren’t afraid to take some chances.

Maintaining originality isn’t the easiest thing in the world – for musicians, writers, you name it – but the work that can result is worth all of the effort. Let's hope The Bradbury Press continue to chart their musical journey with that in mind.