AM Taxi, Don't Stand A Chance

I received this album (to be released on June 8) just one short week ago, though there was a special iTunes release on May 18, and have been listening to it ever since. At first I kept thinking "So what? They sound just like everyone else out there right now, in fact, I can't even think of one song that particularly stands out...". After some time, however, it hit me. They don't sound like everyone else out there, this Chicago quintet sounds very much like one band in particular: Lucky Boys Confusion. They primary difference being that the vocals have that raspier, indie rock sound that you hear a lot these days.

What I failed to put together at that very instant of said thought, was that AM Taxi's frontman/guitarist Adam Krier and bassist Jason Schultejann were also members of Lucky Boys Confusion. Fascinating...

With that out of the way, I have to say AM Taxi (short for American Taxi) isn't a bad band at all. In fact after listening to them I have this innate need to see them live. Their style really seems to lend to a live performance that may actually be much more impressive than that of a recorded file burned to disc.

After a few listens, certain tracks certainly begin to stand out. No one over the other, but they all start to pop a bit. It is a very easy listen, no headaches here. No irritations. In fact, you find yourself with lyrics getting trapped in your head for later play.

So much of what I read on them speaks volumes on what a unique sound they bring to the scene, but I just feel the need to warn you, this is perhaps only true if you only ever listen to top 40 hits. But I must add, as well, that just because they aren't the most original band off the block in the last few years doesn't mean these guys don't have a great, catchy vibe. And to be from Chicago, they are practically neighbors to us here in Grand Rapids. We always appreciate it when a regional band makes it out of the Midwest. It isn't easy. Especially a successful non-metal band. I hope to see some good things from these guys in the coming months while they make a name for themselves on the Warped Tour...

AM Taxi We Don't Stand A Chance

AM Taxi
We Don't Stand A Chance