Standard Candle
Juliet's Dying (2002)

review by: Michael Walls
Date: 4/25/02

When I first listened to this CD, my initial reaction was, "hey, pretty good stuff…"

But after several weeks of closer inspection and concentrated listening, I've realized, "Wow, these guys are REALLY good." To a point of wondering why every record label, big or small, isn't fighting to sign these guys.

Standard Candle is a talented foursome of songwriting musicians out of Birmingham, Alabama, working hard to perfect a sound that, at first listen may be familiar, but is far more complex and addictive then anything currently be pushed on the radio. Led by the captivating vocals of Josh Patrick, Standard Candle manages to push the envelope of today's music with high energy, emotionally-charged rock and lyrical honesty.

Although I'm not a big Pearl Jam fan, there are some similarities in energy and sound. A closer comparison would be to more alternative rock bands like Better Than Ezra, Gin Blossoms, or Smashing Pumpkins. But I hear a huge similarity (whether they know it or not) in Josh Patrick's voice to Ed Kowalczyk's of Live. Real passion and emotion, mixed with raw power, draws the listener into the music. Backed by some outstanding guitar and bass playing, the entire package results in an infectious CD.

Juliet's Dying is a self-released debut album that is crisply recorded and enjoyable from start to finish. The title track, "Juliet's Dying" (track 9) is an addictive tune that stays with you long after the CD ends. But, "Up in Lights" (track 3) is easily a smash hit that, should Standard Candle make the big time, would flood the airwaves.

There are no filler songs on this CD. I sense that each song is important and special to the band, and it comes across that way. Other standouts include, "Angels (in the Orchestra)", "Fallen", "Red", and "Marshes".

An independent release, this CD is difficult to find. But you can currently get it on CDBaby.com or through the band's website.

If you're a fan of indie rock, and like listening to new, good music before it gets polluted by producers and record companies, pick this one up. It's well worth the money.