Back with yet another lead singer, Further Seems Forever continues their evolution with the release of “Hide Nothing.” The album as a whole is no doubt a success for the band, but a few rocky moments could possibly leave Further fans a bit disappointed with this anticipated third release.
Unfortunately, opening the album is the track “Light Up Ahead,” one of the weaker songs in the mix. A satisfying guitar introduction eventually descends into an uninteresting verse and an awkwardly constructed chorus. Although the song isn’t a complete failure, it clearly lacks as an opener by failing to really pull you in.
Despite an uncomfortable transition from the first, the second track “Hide Nothing” begins to show some promise for an enjoyable album by providing a more intriguing melody. From track three on, the songs contain more flow and uniformity that enhanced compositions.
Lyrically, the CD lacks growth by reducing to a more straightforward approach to song writing. There isn’t a lot of guessing required for interpretation of the band’s lyrics, but perhaps simplicity was an intended tactic for ensuring that listeners walk away without confusion. The album is set to heavy Christian undertones, despite Further’s mainstream category, and each track, though some more discreetly than others, appears to be a reflection of the band’s beliefs. The emotional yet simplified lyrics enhance understanding, but unfortunately subtract from the band’s creative credibility.
Going hand-in-hand with the lyrics, musical compositions aren’t strikingly original. Past albums saw a bit more flavor in song structure, but this isn’t to say that “Hide Nothing” is void of a personality. The track “Already Gone” plays off one musical element by providing listeners with a pleasing blend of vocal harmony. The result is a slightly hypnotic composition that successfully evokes a craving for more. In the track “Bleed,” Further lays out a simple yet catchy piece by once again incorporating harmony, set to a powerfully rhythmic foundation. Closing the album is a beautifully mellow piece that allows the simplicity of acoustics to carry listeners into a musical escape, conveniently leaving you with sentiments of satisfaction. Perhaps the only real problematic downfall is the presence of new vocals. Johnathon Bunch gives the music a nice sound, but in retrospect, Further’s previous frontmen (the first being Chris Carrabba, now lead singer for Dashboard Confessionals) showed much more vocal strength and provided a powerful drive behind the band’s music.
“Hide Nothing” may not give fans the punch they were hoping for, but the album still delivers a solid performance. Regardless of slight regression, “Hide Nothing” remains a good addition for fans to their collection.
Repeated listenings are, however, key on this album. Extended attention reveals that more is present than meets the eye. It would have been nice if a band with obvious talent could have shown a little more creativity with their release, but listeners at least won’t be left feeling unsatisfied. Perhaps a fourth album is lingering ahead, but until then, “Hide Nothing” is a successful filler.