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Artist: Miracles of Modern Science
Album: Miracles of Modern Science EP
Label: Amazing Wow
Release Date: October 24, 2008
Miracles of Modern Science are indefatigable defenders of dreaming. Thus they subscribe to the theory that battles are won with brains not brawn. Otherwise, they might not have tackled orchestral pop so literally.
To start, the Brooklyn-based band integrate a variety of classical elements (mandolin, double bass, violin and cello) with a triumphant indie rock sensibility. And for this very reason alone they could be lopped into the same category as the Arcade Fire. They certainly devise miniature ballads that swell with purpose, providing a cerebral soundtrack to the most poignant of times.
Miracles of Modern Science - "Eating Me Alive"
Yet it is an unambiguous, do-or-die mentality which Miracles of Modern Science exudes that is markedly different. As repeatedly underscored in "Eating Me Alive," dithering about can consume you whole. Front man Josh Hirshfeld intones, "Figured that my heart would be my guide/ When I asked my heart my spleen replied/ Said don't bother with your heart it never can be found/ Stick with me I'm better qualified."
The brief, four-song affair that Hirshfeld engages in with the listener is peculiar and, furthermore, unforgettable. But generally minds are more easily won than retained. Only time will reveal the success of such forward thinking.
