Again we have an Italian band improving on a style all but abandoned in the US: experimental hardcore and post-punk. Rather than going the stale, regurgitation route that most US bands have, Lillayell have crafted a record containing catchy, ever expanding rhythms and the loud-quiet style known and loved in the emo/screamo scene.

The self-titled release from Lillayell mixes odd timing, minimal vocals, and strong, great melodies together to form a mixture well worth experiencing. There is a familiarity that is hard to place in these tunes, but something original and, when all is said and done, slightly strange as well. The progressions are odd, but they work well, and the music is good rock, with drops and surprises laced throughout.

The inevitable comparisons to Sonic Youth, Second Story Window, Unwound, and even Maximillion Colby are warranted, but Lillayell do something unique and, while not necessarily unheard of, definitely creative with these influences. Each track effortlessly follows the last; the album brings to mind the height of experimental prog-rock (whatever that means), and for those of us who miss those days, this album is a welcomed arrival.

-Todd Berry