ISLE OF THIEVES "Only Human" (Self Released) one / ten

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Toronto based Canadian angst rockers Isle of Thieves fall somewhere between Nickelback and Jimmy Eat World circa Clarity, were the latter burdened with compromising synth leads and altogether deprived of the charm and the humanity they seem so assured of possessing, with altogether cringe-worthy allusions throughout of us, indeed being, 'Only Human', a concept conjured up by forenamed-only frontman Japath.

First single from the self-released debut, 'Hollywood (Cleft Lip)' stomps into action, loaded with hallmark power chords and crass, anthemic cliches, complete with vacant emoting. The record continues to persist aimlessly, complying to likewise strict, formulaic patterns and overworked, angsty subject matter, musically deviating only for the lighters aloft, macho balladeering of the album's title track, a lyrically mind numbing deploration of one-night stands.

Essentially, the record is a grunge-tinged, alt-rock din that's chronological misplacement holds little place amongst the industry cool and adoration of its modern counterparts. With the pain and botheration of adolescence as the unadulterated main frame of reference it can be banked on that Only Human will be a soundtrack for many a misunderstood teenage girl but will, doubtfully, gain little more heed.

Ashling Cronin
www.myspace.com/isleofthieves

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