Fifteen years back on the stairwell of Amy’s Diner in Buffalo, New York, three musicians joined forces to become Lemuria. An Indie rock alternative band who over the past fifteen years have toured the world, released four albums, and evolved their sound in that period.
Lemuria consist of Alex Kerns, Sheena Ozzella, Max Gregor, and they play rock music. On the 2nd February is the release of ‘Recreational Hate‘ via label Big Scary Monsters. A ten-track album which they’ve stated as the next book in their fantasy series.
‘Recreational Hate opens with Timber Together, my first insight into this band. The track offers a gentle introduction to Lemuria. Second tune Sliver Change arrives with faster drum beats, an enjoyable song for fans to get into. Ozzella’s vocals on Christine have pure gusto and again a fun track to listen.
More Tunnel and Wanted to be Yours are two highlights, they’ve a pop factor with catchy music with a nice bit of sax added to Wanted to be Yours. Kerns and Ozzella together on vocals allowing each other to flow.
Trying to put my finger on the sound of their music, what it reminds me of, it then dawned on me, they are perfect for New Girl, the TV show also Zooey Deschanel’s own band She & Him. It’s a kooky mix of lovable tunes and delicate lyrics. Alex Kerns takes on vocals with Trembling, a sensitive affectionate vocal style along with the slight touch of guitar chords being plucked.
Penultimate track is Marigold, which is the name of the first song Dave Grohl sung with Nirvana. Anyway. Sheena Ozzella’s vocals are powerful and strong as her cohorts Alex Kerns drum beat and Max Gregor baseline make it heavier than previous tunes. A sign there’s much give in their musical prowess.
‘Recreational Hate’ may be for fans of She & Him, with some Weezer which I tasted in this foray into the mind of Lemuria. Go see them, they tour the US in February.