“Heaven” by Pomegranates

Pomegranates
Heaven
[Modern Outsider]

Pomegranates have been one of the wonders of Cincinnati, OH for long enough to make an impact like you wouldn’t believe. But their latest release, Heaven, doesn’t capture the best that the band can do.

Better than most bands, the Pomegranates put on a phenomenal live show filled with pop fun and sweet voices. A little bit of synth, a little bit of strong guitars, a little bit of every indie fan’s dream. However, this album is a little bit hit-or-miss. The title track “Heaven” is so much fun. Sounds like The Shins mixed with a synthesizer. Dance along while still admiring the beauty style — but then there are tracks like “Passaway.” There isn’t anything wrong with the track, it’s a simple little ditty with an attractive pumping drumline. However, it isn’t the type of special song you can expect from the Pomegranates. The falsetto vocals kick in and the track feels more cheesy than jaw-dropping amazing. In short, it sounds like someone else’s song.

Move on to the track “Night Run.” The track is so quiet and a great example of this Cincinnati wonder — unique music that isn’t trying too hard — and best compared to another Cincinnati wonder, The Seedy Seeds. Our personal favorite is “Surfing The Human Heart.” While the track doesn’t capture that live-show fun the band is great at, it’s personal. Lyrics like “I’ve seen a lot of shit in my day/but I’m too young to quit they say,” is the type of personal anthem track that — while it might not be the best song ever written — are so personal you can’t help but feel attached.

Be sure to capture this album. It isn’t the album of the year, sure, but that shouldn’t stop you from checking out this stunning local wonder that will soon outgrow the midwest.