LEELAND
Opposite Way (Essential)
[4 stars]
Listening to Leeland’s Opposite Way, it’s hard to choose which stands out most: front man Leeland Mooring’s unhampered vocals, the band’s strong collective songwriting, or the blasts of energy from beginning to end. Utilizing the talent ambitiously, producer Matt Bronleewe (Michael W. Smith, Natalie Imbruglia) guides the men of Leeland over the sophomore slump to a stellar second release.
A list of obvious influences mark Opposite Way, but none overt enough to warrant a distinguished comparison. In fact, it’s rare for something so accessible to be quite so advanced. Specific lyrically and progressive musically, Opposite Way is effective top to bottom. Leeland may be a young band, but they possess the raw talent and energy to create something truly original for this industry.
