Annabel – Now That We’re Alive

Having already enjoyed the ambient, carefree melodies present of Annabel’s full-length, Each and Everyone, I had originally thought that reviewing their very first EP might have seemed a little tedious.  The EP,Now that We’re Alive, features six tracks, three of which made the cut for Each and Everyone.  But then, after a few tracks I realized that it was foolish to complain about being given another opportunity to listen to a band as fun as Annabel.

While I recall identifying Each And Everyone’s only real weakness as being its tendency for repetition, the EP’s short format completely resolves this issue.  The first three tracks, “Parade Rest,” “Castles In The Air,” and “Boquet Mines,” all made the cut for Each and Everyone, so of the familiar tracks, there is no filler, just a reminder of the best Annabel has to offer.

Even though the remaining three tracks didn’t make the full album’s cut, they’re no less delightful.  They’re actually some of Annabel more abstract tracks, subscribing to pleasant loops, and lofty, daydream inducing melodies.  Furthermore, Annabel’s wondrous bridges help listeners overcome the fact that each of the six tracks clock in at a bloated four minutes.  Arcade Fire and Deathcab for Cutie influences still guide tracks like “If the Accident Will” and especially “…And Elsewhere;” and like the first three tracks, these influences couldn’t be more effectively integrated.

I should also give a brief nod to the assumedly hand-sewn packing.  The packing is quite the novelty item, and I’d wager that you’d never quite seen anything like it.  It’s purely a cosmetic factor, but also serves as a nice flourish that reinforces the love that the band puts into their products.

There really isn’t much more to say other than if you’ve heard Each and Everyone then you’ll know what to expect with Now That We’re Alive.  This is a concise little package that would serve as a great intro to the band, or a nice selective summary for established fans.  And if you’re reluctant to drop some money for tracks you already own, don’t worry, you can just pop on over to If You Make It’s growing database of band approved free albums and download the album free of charge (and if you like what you hear, possibly drop a donation).