Army Navy: The Last Place

Army Navy
The Last Place
The Fever Zone Records [2011]









Fire Note Says: Conceptual power pop on Army Navy's sophomore record offers plenty of rewards.

Album Review:
Don't mistake the sophomore power pop album, The Last Place, from L.A.'s Army Navy as a feel good hit of the summer, as its songs are about a relationship gone sour. This concept gives the record purpose and Army Navy handle the subject matter with respect, while still giving the listener plenty of hooks to stratify their sugar hunger. What I especially like about The Last Place is that Army Navy does not immediately come out and attack, as most of the songs here get in your head after several spins. Their solid arrangements get your feet tapping and slowly you will find yourself singing along with some of the songs recalled painful memories. Army Navy make The Last Place work with their smooth as silk delivery because the band has a relaxed flow that never goes for that "big" moment but rather wins you over with solid musicianship, consistently good singing and interesting storytelling. These factors separates Army Navy out because their song restraint is a hidden talent so that when they perform more rocking tracks like "I Think It's Gonna Happen" it is not only somewhat surprising but an album highlight. Army Navy may not break out with The Last Place but the band shows progression from their debut and even though the concept is a bummer, the band's execution will keep you coming back for more!

Key Tracks: "The Long Goodbye", "I Think It's Gonna Happen", "Ode To Janice Melt"

Bands With Similar Fire:
The Posies
Idlewild
Teenage Fanclub

Army Navy : Army Navy [Fire Note Review 10/13/08]

Army Navy Website
Army Navy Facebook

-Reviewed by Christopher Anthony