RFC Reviews: Victorian Halls' "Charlatan"

Since I finally have a reliable computer and have settled into my new apartment, it seems like it's a pretty good time for me to start writing about music and stuff again! Now, I know what you're probably thinking: "Man, I really wish I had some Reese's Peanut Butter Cups right about now". As awesome as that would be, it is completely irrelevant to anything I just said. Moving on. Recently, via email, a Chicago based band by the name of Victorian Halls was brought to my attention. I feel like I've probably heard of these guys before, but who really knows. I've heard of a lot of bands. The point is that I've heard of them now and you definitely should too!

Victorian Halls has a very unique sound somewhat reminiscent of bands like Foxy Shazam and The Stiletto Formal. However, lead singer, Sean Lennart, has some of the most intensely original vocals that they could not possibly be mistaken for anyone else. The band's newest album, Charlatan, dropped on August 16th via Victory Records and, let me tell you, it is more than worth your time.

The albums first single, "A Crush Is A Crush" is a powerful pop anthem that could make even the least coordinated person get up and start dancing. That being said, you probably want to listen to this song at parties. Although the entire song is fantastic overall, it's not until the first chourus, I feel, that Lennart's vocals really shine. At this point, the listener is able to realize his full potential. Lennart hits the rest of the track hard, hitting notes that most vocalists probably didn't even know existed. It's pretty impressive.

If you're looking for another reason to put on your dancin' shoes, look no further than "Girls Kiss Girls". This song makes me want to jump around in circles waving my arms like an idiot. That's really the best way for me to describe it. I think what makes this particular song really stand out to me is the use of the keyboard. I really like piano in general; however, this track would not be nearly as good as it is were it not for the keys.

"Lucky 16" is a song that, at first, I sort of hated. However, it's really grown on me now. To some, it might sound like the band is just yelling about various things like "needing a new girl". While that is possibly true, the track is different and really helps to break up the album.

Basically, what I'm trying to say, is that I still haven't gotten any Reeses, and that is terribly unfortunate. I had the opportunity to get some, but I decided not to take it. It might be my one regret in life. Anyway, what I'm also trying to say, is that I fully endorse the idea of you listening to Victorian Halls. Their upbeat sound and charismatic vocals make them not only fun to dance to, but also fun to listen to!