Strangeland Delivers "Keane" Ideas

Keane isn't a half-bad bunch of musicians to have on hand when you need your load lightened. "Starting Line", one selection from the new "Strangeland" CD, is glowing testimony. Tom Chaplin, the lead vocalist for this Sussex, England outfit, wins over the emotionally unsure with a charismatic fervor. I find the synth component of this song gently beautiful, as if it were brushed on to the song's canvas watercolor style. "Sea Fog" is its musical polar opposite. The piano expands upward from the epicenter of tumultuousness. "You Are Young" shines with the spunky optimism that's often the calling card for young people receiving their first helping of life. Drummer Richard Hughes skips along mirthfully on this adrenaline-fueled locomotive. As for "On The Road" you can't help but root for Chaplin's uncorked energy. You honestly start believing total darkness isn't insurmountable. Keane's to be commended for maintaining status as a rock band that eschews a guitars first mentality. Putting piano, organs, and synths center stage allows the lyrical content to unfold seamlessly around the sound. Any comparisons to Coldplay are flattering but detract from the reality that Keane's a pop-rock force to be reckoned with in its own right. Coming along for this ride requires no arm tugging. "Strangeland" is comfortingly sharp both conceptually and instrumentally. Be sure to hold on with both hands.