Lakota – Acquaintances

Unless you’re from New York City and go to a bunch of local shows, the chances of you knowing who Lakota is are slim. But they are hoping to change that soon, and with their Acquaintances EP, it is quite possible that they will be able to do just that.

The short five song EP gives you a little preview of what to expect from the blossoming band on their upcoming full length (scheduled for sometime in the summer of 2005 on Pop Up Records). Acquaintancesis 5 well-written rock songs lead with strong, melodic and determined vocals. Vocals that remind me of singers like Jonah Matranga of Gratitude and onelinedrawing or Scott Radinksy of Pulley and Ten Foot Pole fame. There’s drive and determination in the vocals, but not too serious or overbearing – just a nice easily laid back vocals with choruses that get stuck in your head.

Although the five song EP doesn’t really venture too far off the path, they don’t really need to. If done right, following a formula can be damn good and entertaining – this is proof of that. The songs all have a nice little umph, a kick that makes them more energetic and catchy then the average rock song. And even though it doesn’t get your fist pumping in the year, it does make you tap your foot and bob your head occasionally as its upbeat melodies flow through the speakers.

While Acquaintances doesn’t break any new ground, it does keep us intrigue while we wait for the full length. It is a solid modern rock album with great vocals, catchy guitar parts and cool tempos. Fans of a slightly laid back Gratitude should definitely at least give these guys a chance, you never know, you may like them.