From the get go on Los Angeles based rock duo El Ten Eleven's fifth studio album Transitionsyou are entered into the world of synths and beautiful melodic riffs. This lyric-less band comes nothing short of personal and emotional meaning in each song and in-depth musical structures. Since their last studio album in 2008, El Ten Eleven has not only bumped up from simple pop structures but also song length; from an average of two to five minutes per song to their title track 'Transitions' running over ten.By Basement DJ: Lauren Hanson
The song 'Yellow Bridges' pays homage to acoustic and electronic drummer Tim Fogarty's hometown of Pittsburgh and it begins on a very catchy beat with strong drumming from Fogarty leading into intricate overlapping synthesized melodies. With undertones of single guitar chords, it brings a whole new level of dimension to this electronic instrumental band. Each track naming has significance behind it for both Fogarty and guitar/bass player Kristian Dunn. 'No One Died This Time!' refers to how during recording of their past four albums, Fogarty and Dunn experienced the loss of a close friend or family member. On the whole El Ten Eleven gives us a strongly unique sound from the sublime and intricacy of the title track 'Transitions' to the mellow, bass-filled cover of Duran Duran's 'Tiger, Tiger'. Fogarty and Dunn put a lot of soul into Transitions and it shines through well. Without lyrics, El Ten Eleven makes for the perfect low-key music set while still keeping a listener interested.
Recommended Tracks: Transitions, Yellow Bridges, Thanks Bill, Lullaby