The Briggs – Leaving The Ways

As far as my tastes go, I usually can’t stand listening to raspy vocals for too long. Bands like Rancid and Jersey even, just not my style. This is also the same story when it comes to The Briggs. The only difference; I can actually listen to this without wanting to leave the room. Maybe it’s the music, or the way the songs are set up, but there’s just something about this record that makes it stand above all others who share their sound.

One of the first things that came to mind when I put this in the stereo was that these guys would be fun to see live. These are songs that would be fun to sing along to and perfect to start a pit to. On the second track Waiting In The Shadows there’s even a ‘whoa-oh’ part for people to sing along to that have never heard it before. I was just out on the Warped Tour for a few dates but never had a chance to see them play, and after listening to the album I’m wishing I did. When they come back through town I’ll definately go check them out.

Lyrically I didn’t find this album very origional at all. Drinking, escape, being held back for your beliefs. True words, but words that have been spoken many times before. The sound of the album doesn’t change much either, except for All On Me, which could be mistaken for a different band entirely. It’s faster and definately more aggressive.

Overall I’d have to say this is a mediocore album for my tastes, but if you’re a fan of this kind of punk sound, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it very much. With The Briggs, as with every other band, it comes down to a simple stage of opinion and personal taste. I can see myself listening to this album once in a while and checking them out live, but I don’t think I’d be going out and recommending it to everyone I know. My advice, go check it out for yourself and give it a chance.