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The Animal Strings Album isn't the sort of record that typically emanates from my headphones during the workday or rattles my apartment at night, but I've still grown attached to its quaint, restrained musicianship and personal, down-to-earth character. Far from rip-roaring or annoyingly sugary, Call It Arson has a firm grasp on writing memorable, textured indie rock songs without a bunch of cheap tricks. Acoustic guitars and campfire-ready singing introduce and close this six-song release, sandwiching a middle section that's built around driving, mid-paced tempos, shaky singing and guitars that range from delicate and folk-y to gritty and distorted. The album hits its high point with the second song, "The Unmanageable Superstate," which has a prominent harmonica part and a chorus that are pretty damn memorable. While the remaining songs are too reminiscent of Bright Eyes and Death Cab for Cutie to sound as unique, Call It Arson's personality keeps me attuned. This is a friendly effort; good, not great.
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