Artist: The Helio Sequence
Album: Keep Your Eyes Ahead
File Under: Dream Rock
Recommended if You Like: Early U2, Band of Horses
Featured Tracks: Lately

The Portland-based duo, The Helio Sequence, released their third album ‘Keep Your Eyes Ahead’ in January of this year; but it’s one of those records I just keep coming back to again and again. While this post may be long overdue, the relevance of this recommendation is right on.  It’s a great summer album. Perhaps it’s because there are moments on the record that sound so early U2/Joshua Tree I can’t help but feel nostalgic.  

To see them live gives you an even greater appreciation of their range and talent. Drummer Benjamin Weikel is mesmerizing to watch on stage with his visceral drumming technique, as if he’s in some altered state of ecstasy.  Combined with Brandon Summers refined vocals and radiant layers of reverb guitar, the duo produces a lot of good sound.  It’s certainly high on my list for Best of 2008; maybe even claiming title to ‘Sleeper Album of the Year’.  So go get it already.  Hurry, before the summer’s up.

Get this album free via eMusic’s 50 Free MP3 Promo

buy it at insound!