kensington heights finds the constantines in familiar territory, making music the way that they know best: crafting strong, passionate, often anthemic songs that work to blend the simple ferocity of punk rock with the raw, earthy tones of classic rock. while it is nice to hear constantines in a comfortable space, at times the band seems too relaxed and uncertain of where they’re going. this lack of confidence undermines what would otherwise be a very solid record. “hard feelings” is a merry-go-round of guitars and organ, and although it’s powerful and invigorating, it leads nowhere. sure, offering no direction or solution has the potential to suggest the disparity of a song’s subject matter, but this does not seem to be the case given that the album ends on such a positive note with “do what you can do.” the second half of the record, however, is far more focussed and features two of the most well-written, affecting songs on kensington heights, “credit river” and “new king.” their presence on the album helps to make it a more challenging and confrontational experience– one that falters occasionally, but recovers with intensity and spirit.
Filed under: Album Review , 2008, Constantines, Kensington Heights
