Don’t make the same mistake this reviewer made by expecting Heavens to be another formation of Alkaline Trio because it’s not. Yes, Matt Skiba’s voice is recognizable, but also a tad different. On Patent Pending, Skiba’s voice is toned lower with little emotional fluctuations. Skiba teamed up with Josiah Steinbrick who works the guitar, bass, rhodes and noise and is of F-Minus fame. According to press on the band, influences range from Joy Division to Bauhaus.
Overall, Patent Pending is electronically driven with synths and tweaked guitars. The album opens with “Gardens,” which illustrates Skiba’s low-tone vocals and the basic instrumental melodies and harmonies that Heavens bank on. “Heather” and “Dead End Girl” are among the many mellow tracks on Patent Pending, while “Patent Pending” and “Annabelle” are a little more upbeat.
Patent Pending isn’t really my cup of tea, as melancholy albums don’t get my blood boiling. Heavens’ musicianship and lyrics can’t be classified as anything less than superb. I give Patent Pending a 7.5 (out of 10).
Suggested Listening: “Patent Pending” and “Annabelle”
By: Adam Karol – Senior Editor / Founder
