Anthony Green is an indie musician who has fronted bands like Circa Survive, Saosin,  and The Sound of Animals Fighting. His sophomore album, Beautiful Things, was released this Tuesday. Beautiful Thingsis a moody, indie and alternative piece that swirls with the emotional cries and shrieks of Green. There are electronic influences here and there, rolling basslines, and depressed lyrics. Green alters genres and styles of music often, from alternative rock to indie folk, and electronic stoner rock to a lo-fi a capella that sounds like it was recorded in a hallway, it’s all there.

“If I Don’t Sing” starts off the album with a rather energetic offering, reminiscent of a catchy Kasabian song. The alternative rock side of Green is prominent here. This is a solid introductory track.“Do It Right” is the a capella song I mentioned earlier, upon first listen, it appears to be the product of Green and his band mates’ sudden musical inspiration and spontaneous recording in a hallway or bathroom. It’s an interesting choice for the album, and another change in style.

“When I’m On Pills” is a relaxed, electronic, and soulful piece of work. Impacting and slow basses support the accenting synth and his wandering mind’s lyrics. It’s a change for the album’s usual alternative and indie sound that is found on previous and next tracks.

“Blood Song” is a folky jam that Green strums out at the end of the album. It’s melodic and joyful, until you hear and read the lyrics. Green tells the stories of several people who have died, and the consequnces of that. “You’ll get no more sleep at night. You no longer sleep at night. You
No longer dream.” says Green at the disturbing end of the song, and it sticks in your head pretty hard.

Never has the phrase “pretty good” been so apt. However, as a policy, I like to be firm in my opinions, not give two words that doesn’t really give you anything to go on. This album has it’s moments, good and mediocre. Green has really one sound that is the core of the album, but he makes the decision to try new things, a very attractive trait to me. These decisions make the album interesting, fun, and gives the ability for re-listening. This album deserves a 4 out of 5.