Maker is an alt-rock five-piece from Springfield, Massachusetts. Like many of their contemporaries—Transit, for example—who have originated from the Bay State, Maker are a strong and hardworking band, combining a variety of 90’s emo and hardcore influences with more modern pop-punk, resulting in an edgy, yet inalienable sound. Mirrors, their first full-length LP, builds upon the 2009 release, I-91, with a new style and maturity.

Title track and album opener “Mirrors,” starts with brooding and shrill guitar shreds that lead to the vocals of Dave Carter; an obvious focal point, he undoubtedly sounds resoundingly like Deja Entendu- and Devil And God-era Jesse Lacey of Brand New, a comparison that stands strong among the many all too quickly made to Lacey. The sleek-talking impersonation is coalesced with tormented harmonies, which carry forward to “Earthquakes,” a highlight on the ten track record. On the bridge Carter ironically sounds more like Adam Lazarra of Taking Back Sunday, which will certainly impress many listeners. “Tsunamis” embodies similar aspects, where slick guitars build in verses and finally detonate in choruses, lined with depressing lyrics (“I’m so selfish, but hey, hey, isn’t everyone else?”). 

As the album progresses, it appears that Maker’s sound becomes simpler and regresses from modern influence to an increasingly evident 90’s hardcore, Lifetime sound—a change that is executed effectively. “For Every Mistake I Ever Made” takes the listener back to the days of Tony Hawks Pro Skater, with punky instrumentals and rage-fuelled shouts. “What’s In Your Head” and “Basement Song” present similar verses, but with elements of pop-punk, that could be pass for old-school Four Year Strong. The latter is the best song Maker has produced, demonstrating the most originality on Mirrors and the greatest opportunity for a crowd-favourite live.

“14” displays the other mark of the 90’s with an emo feel reminiscent of pioneers Saves the Day and the notable chorus line “Wake up, wake up, wake up” and a fierce outro breakdown. Meanwhile, “A Postcard I Never Sent To You” is a brief yet catchy acoustic ballad, and whilst serving as the token acoustic track, is impressive nonetheless. Finale “…I’ve Been Wondering” is a concise but grand finish to Mirrors, with a Gaslight Anthem-esque vibe providing an anthemic ender.

Maker draws comparison with some real titans of the alt-rock world, which unquestionably provides some credibility to the young start-ups. Whilst Mirrors is a likeable debut with some noteworthy moments, one hopes that in the future they will hone their sound and find their own musical platform to stand on.  

★★★.5/★★★★★

*This review was composed by Ramsey Marwan