You Know Who You Are is somewhat different than Nada Surf’s usual distinct style of indie-alternative. That said, it develops an aura in which their style is still around, just trading in short chord hooks (“80 Windows” to exemplify) for fluid, rhythmic, heavy, pop. “Cold To See Clear” opens the release in just this fashion; the guitar is not exactly the soulful-grunge hybrid of their early career, though it does retain some energy found on a record such as High/Low.
Further on, “Believe You’re Mine”, “Animal”, and “Friend Hospital” all qualify as gems with aura and cut an acoustic amplification through the record.
“Gold Sounds” is raw and underwhelming because of its simplicity. “Out of the Dark” could be the pick of the bunch in an odd way because it is full flowing, with trumpets, unlike many of the more plodding songs. “Rushing” is the kind of cheery jaunt only a band like Nada Surf can produce, because amidst all of the dreary atmosphere, is a band that works for their high as much as anyone else does. The title track and “Victory’s Yours” on the other hand, are much louder and with anthemistic drums brings the album to some sense of melodic closure.
You Know Who You Are is a soothing, indie-alternative cool but far from a perfect record. It should please fans of the band and helps fill an alternative hole currently in the music landscape.
Nada Surf – Animal
