Melee’s debut album for Warner Bros. Records, “Devils & Angels,” shows that this pop-rock quartet is an up-and-coming band to keep your eye on.
The Orange County-based band might seem like every other band on the radio right now, but when you listen closer you will realize that it has a wide range of songs with lyrics about more than just girls and relationships.
“The album is about being in your 20s in modern America,” said lead vocalist and keyboardist Chris Cron.
The first track and single off the album, “Built to Last,” is a showcase for Cron’s amazing vocals and proves that the band is not afraid to be honest and emotional in its lyrics. The track is an optimistic love song with a chorus stating, “Cause this is real, and this is good/It warms the inside just like it should/but most of all it’s built to last.”
What sets Melee apart from other pop-rock bands is Cron’s powerful piano playing that is included on every track and the band says has “become something of a second lead vocalist.” The album really features Cron’s piano skills on intense ballads such as “Can’t Hold On” and “She’s Gonna Find Me Here.”
If you’re looking for more upbeat songs, Melee’s album is laced with many melodic pop songs just waiting to be chart-topping hits. “Frequently Baby (She’s Just a Teenage Maniac)” and “For a Lifetime” have uplifting melodies and pop hooks that will easily be stuck in your head all day long. “Devils and Angels” closes with Melee’s cover of Daryl Hall and John Oates’ classic pop hit “You Make My Dreams Come True.”
If you like all the mainstream pop-rock bands that are taking over the radio waves lately but are looking for music with more meaning, Melee’s “Devils and Angels” will not disappoint. The quartet’s album is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of fun, energetic pop songs and soulful ballads with a little bit of rock.
