Walter Schreifels - An Open Letter To The Scene

Rating: 9/10
Genre: Indie/Emo
Walter Schreifels has always been regarded as a cult legend. His illustrious career began way back in the late 80's as a guitarist in several bands in the New York hardcore scene. Since then he has been involved in many acts such as Quicksand and Rival Schools usually delivering amazing records and then disappearing off the face of the earth before getting any of the recognition they are due. So it is a welcoming sight indeed to see another full length LP arrive with his name on it.

The first thing to note here is this is in essence a very poppy release. Walter has always had a knack for a great melody as much of Rival Schools debut LP United by Fate demonstrates and here is no different. The album as a whole is filled with catchy choruses and beautiful harmonies. The songs are short and sweet and mostly consist of Walter on an acoustic guitar with some light jazzy percussion and the odd sample thrown in here and there to add variety. The whole affair is uplifting and makes for a very summery listen. Highlights come in thick and fast from the opener "Arthur Lee's Lullaby" with it's teasing squeals of electric guitar to the majestic beauty of Walters harmonies on "Save The Saveable". There really are no disappointments with this album from start to finish it is fun fresh and accessible. The compositions seem a million miles away from much of Walter's different bands, the only similarity being the stunning melodic singing, but this is still a very well ronded release. Simplicity seems to be the key to its success as a stripped back sound allows you to focus in on Walter's brilliant musicianship and singing. The only reason this didn't land with a score of ten is its short length, many of the best tracks fail to pass the 3 minute mark. That being said it's still one of the best albums 2010has had to offer.

Overall "An Open Letter To The Scene" is a very well accoomplished solo record from an artist that I always have high expectations for. A follow up to this album is already in the works after completion and release of Rival Schools new album "Pedals" next year (One of my most anticipated recordsof 2011) which can only be a good thing. A great album and a great listen all round. Highly recommended.

Download: "Save The Saveables" "Ballad Of Lil' Kim"