Tiny Engines – Release Date: 9/28/18

Within seconds of listening to the opening track on LP5000, it’s plainly evident that Restorations have found a new sense of focus and made significant strides since their last full-length. And that’s not to say anything derogatory about their previous work. Rather, this album is simply confirmation of a really good band turning the corner and becoming great. The first song, “St.,” establishes a mood of disillusion and disconnect that’s present throughout, yet there’s also a sense of resistance that’s never too far out of reach. Singer/guitarist Jon Loudon’s vocals are nothing short of commanding, leading the charge of an empathetic chorus, “I’ll tell you what you already know / Can’t do this all on your own.” “Nonbeliever” deals with the inevitable ways in which relationships change over time, as well as societal changes that are perhaps unavoidable too. It features interwoven guitar leads and inventive rhythms, both of which collaborate to make for one of the record’s most memorable tracks. “The Red Door” is an indie rock-leaning entry that’s exceedingly catchy, but in a manner that’s unique and unpredictable. It addresses the ongoing gentrification in the band’s hometown of Philadelphia, a theme that surfaces multiple times on the record.

The production, courtesy of Jon Low, (The National, Frightened Rabbit) draws attention to the subtleties of the songwriting, while simultaneously making complex arrangements sound effortless. And as much as LP5000 is about Restorations reaching their apex, it’s also centered on observations, both in terms personal connections and what it’s like to be living in today’s America. In that sense it’s very much rooted in the present, yet this record is also somewhat timeless as it’s one of the best examples of anthemic rock ‘n’ roll to come along in years.