Music for the masses
Juliana Theory album reflects ‘Love’
By Jacque Petersell
Editor in chief

I tend not to remember names of bands or singers when listening to the radio.

So when I was asked to review “Love” by The Juliana Theory, images of another Britney Spears wanna-be singing cheesy high-school love songs floated through my head. Was this something I really wanted to pursue?

Thankfully, I didn’t tell my features editor “No.” Instead of being bombarded by pop tunes, I was soothed by loud and soft variations of alternative rock. Instead of a half-dress teenage girl singing, this all-male group (yes, more than one) brings instruments and vocals together for a nice mix.

They even have a radio hit with “Do You Believe Me?” And it’s easy to see why it became so popular. The song talks of someone just looking for a little trust, which is something almost anyone can relate to.

Though the CD is titled “Love,” the songs hardly deal with being in love. The songs tell stories of lost love, lost trust and the measures taken to gain those back.

The real gem on the CD is “Shell of a Man.” Before you can even come down from the song before, “Shell of a Man” begins with a rush of drums. Despite the monotone slow start, the song picks up with the chorus as the singer talks of trying stop feeling afraid and giving into pain, but he’s unable to.

The only complaint of the song is that it takes too long to convey the message. The song is almost six minutes long. However, if you sit around long enough for the end of “Shell of a Man,” expect a real treat. In contrast to the hard drum sounds the song starts off with, it ends with only the soft melody of a piano. It is here the real emotion of the song can be felt.

Other bright spots on the CD include “Jewel to Sparkle,” “The Hardest Days,” “Into the Dark” and “As it Stands.”

Want to experience them live before buying the CD? Well, you have a chance. The Juliana Theory will play April 19 at Deep Ellum Live, 2727 Canton St. in Dallas. It’s an all-ages show and tickets are $15.

Don’t expect The Juliana Theory to disappear any time soon. With their versatile sound, the band easily appeals to many music listeners.

And, especially in times like these, everyone can deal with a little “Love.”

Jacque Petersell