The Swellers – Running Out Of Places To Go

Flint, Mich’s The Swellers’ new, five-song EP, Running Out Of Places To Go, is the band’s first album since parting ways with Fueled By Ramen. Independently released, the EP follows 2011’s Good For Me and shows a distinct change in more than just the label supporting them.

Running Out Of Places To Go struck a different note for me, where I found myself hooked from beginning until end as this EP presents not only the instrumental but the vocal talents that The Swellers carry, at a much higher degree. Though some of the songs maintain a softer, smoother sound, the punk influence resonates and the vocals grow stronger throughout the course of the EP.

The first track on the EP, titled “Hands,” stands as a perfect example of this. The drums start out grabbing, the vocals chime in lightly, and then the song quickly takes off reaching more momentum going into the chorus. The sentinment of change is echoed in the lyrics by vocalist and guitarist Nick Diener who tells the importance of working towards change in a strong, heart-felt manner.

The next three songs, “Let Me In,” “Bad For Me,” and “Making Waves” continue to plunge on, making each new song more anticipated than the first. I’ve always been a fan of The Swellers, but this EP ultimately proves that the band has reached new levels musically.

The final track on Running Out Of Places To Go brings me back to the first. The title-track succesfully leaves a lasting impression, ending the album on a high note.

The Swellers’ recent EP Running Out Of Places To Go encompasses a new beginning for the band, found thriving within the album’s songs, as well the overall progression in the release. The band’s choice to switch to their independent label is also reflected in this album. Though some of the songs differ from previous records in sound and pace, the band still produced a release that heightens their talents and is worth listening to. I’m looking forward to hearing what comes next.