SONS you may know as the band Sons of God, who have in the past put out a few free releases via Come&Live! records.  That is if you know them at all. But after a name change, record label move, and release of their debut full-length record “Keep Quiet” the fact that they remain unknown is a travesty, and ought to change soon.

“Keep Quiet” is ironic title for a record with such a big sound.  The musically savvy will be reminded of Manchester Orchestra in several songs, most notably “Doubt”, the single being pushed at select radio outlets. By the way, label mates Pioneer recently scored a number 1 single, boosting the resume for the tiny Slospeak records so a similar feat from SONS isn’t out of the question.

The record is quite simply well recorded and put together.  There’s something present for everyone.  The hipsters, the indie fans, the scene kids, the preppy suburbanites, the soccer moms – everyone should find something to like. I don’t mean to sound trite or cliche – just listen and you’ll see.  I also don’t mean to seem like a master of flattery – speaking of which, the first track does indeed flatter the reputation of the band.  The track soars, and shows off the Aaron Sprinkle-esque vocal style of Aaron Newberry.

The first hint of solitude comes forth in the first few seconds of “Retribution” which has crunching guitars burst into the lull just like someone seeking retribution might burst into a sticky situation. The tension is palpable and effective.  Solitude actually does exist in the aptly titled “Caution,” in which a slightly eerie undertone keeps the lyrical theme present but not in an overpowering way.  After the even more mellow “Sea of Glass” the aforementioned “Doubt” and “Under the Sun” get your feet tapping again.  Newberry stretches his vocals again in the latter (but let’s be honest, when doesn’t he on this record?).  The earnest “Ghosts” mellows things out again as they sing of surrender.  This, along with with “Sons on the Run” show the band’s ability to incorporate extraneous instrumentation into their compositions in a way that doesn’t seem forced.  The epic “Is This a Dry Season or Agnosticism?” explores a question many Christians deal with but are afraid to ask.   It’s a tad of a downer way to end the record thematically, but ultimately it gets the job done.  Bottom line: SONS have big things coming their way if there is to be justice in the indie rock realm. Buy the record. I did with little experience with the band, and its been one of my best buys of the year.

SONS: Official | iTunes