Record Review: The Love Machine

The Love Machine - Sweater Weather 3/5

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For Ottawa's The Love Machine, time has been their friend. After releasing two EPs, in 2005 and 2007, the boys stand as a more mature and well-rounded band culminating with 2010's release of the band's third disc and first full-length album, Sweater Weather. Not to mention on the eve of the album's release the boys were in good company sharing the stage with The Most Serene Republic and Still Life Still.

Sweater Weather swings between large anthems and more contemplative songs. 'Anniversaries' is the anthem that kicks off the record, but that initial energy is not carried throughout the record, however standouts like 'Be A Path' and 'Width Eyes' capture something more, a mature alternative sound and The Love Machine's instant likability. Good songwriting, avoiding the cliche of relationships in crisis and vocals provided by three of the four members, Sean Prescott (guitar/keys), Jordan David (bass) and Allan Gauthier (guitar/keys) add some depth and interest to the band's sound, but mis-steps like 'Love Is On Your Side' feel angst ridden and a step backwards.

There is still plenty of room for the boys of The Love Machine to grow, and develop their sound, but as far as a debut record goes, the strong moments, like 'Lioness' or key heavy 'We Are Squirrels, And This Is Nuts' make listening and watching the band's evolution worth it. Time is a friend to The Love Machine.