Transit’s radical transformation has been a blessing not only for the success of these Massachusetts natives, but also for their maturing fan base as well. From tightening their vocals on Something Left Behind to molding their tones on Promise Nothing, the steps Transit has taken since their 2008’s This Will Not Define Us have been for the better. But regardless of the direction their musical journey has taken them, their core remains authentic to the bands origins. Tim Landers’s ability to manipulate guitar tones into almost foreign sounds have helped perpetuate the band’s melodies far beyond any of their current counterparts. Joe Boynton’s (Joe B) voice, although bordering a muffled Bostonian accent, has become more melodic and heartfelt. With Landers and newly added guitarist, Torre Cioffi, on harmony, Transit carries their music with a better sense of poise and musical articulation. This maturity is shown on their new track, “Long Lost Friends.”

The intro flows from the first guitar strike while the drums steady beat guides the song into the verse. Joe B begins his vocals as the guitar tones spark and crackle like melodic fireworks. PJ Jefferson meticulously keeps the song together with the bass notes. He serves as the pulse of the song, where without his rhythm the verses would feel lifeless. Transit has a unique way of working together. The compilation of all their instruments creates a symphony of multi-accented melody that keeps the ears consistently active. Joe B takes his voice to another level with an easing melody. He seems to elongate his words effortlessly while Cioffi and Landers elevate the chorus with their light harmony. “Long Lost Friends” is a fairly light track that thrives off its melody. Towards the end, the song takes a split-second pause before drummer Daniel Frazier double taps the kick drum and the snare, rhythmically energizing the last couple of lines in the chorus. It’s a subtle change that ends the song on a high note.

Transit’s lyrics are usually cleverly crafted to explain what’s being felt in a poetic way. Joe B’s allusion to dreams and ghosts fit well with the song and its musical ambience. But the words are mostly straightforward. Lyrics like “How long do you have to say that // This is not the person I used to know // You’re not the person I used to know” and the track’s title, “Long Lost Friends,” seem to reflect a friendship that’s been long-abandoned. The song pays remembrance to that friendship while reflecting on still somber feelings. Transit’s creativity and hunger for expression have really helped them on “Long Lost Friends.” The other tracks off their forthcoming album, Listen & Forgiveshould have the same effect. Listen & Forgive hits stores October 4.

*This review was composed by Jose Terrero