Musicianship – 8 out of 10
When many people think of Independent music, catalog only is the sort of group that comes to mind. Quirky musical elements and off-beat lyrics set them apart from their more mainstream brethren, and as such, they are judged differently. Even though they are different, though, the musical element is still a big part of what makes a band good! And, I am happy to say that in this respect, catalog only earns high marks. I liked the layered sounds that emanated not only from two guitarists, but also from interesting piano parts. The rhythm section plays solid parts as well, getting tremendous tonal quality from their respective instruments. The icing on the cake, though, is the performance of the band’s vocalists. They sing great melodies, and use dynamics in their voices which help to create emotional depth in the songs. This was something that was even more apparent when I saw the group live. They utilize every instrument and every voice to the largest extent, producing as much musical quality as they possibly can! Stated simply, these guys are great musicians!

Songwriting - 8 out of 10
I like the songs on the Solution EP. They are songs for thinkers; songs that don’t so much inspire a hip-shake as they do a shake-up of your mental processes! In a way, I think that all of the songs follow a theme of unrequited love; they speak of a man who loves a woman from afar, but is unable to approach her because of the inadequacy that he feels. One song transitions into the next, and the lyrics read like a story! In the end, the listener is unsure whether the man has been able to express his feelings to the woman. The lyrics, combined with the unique instrumental arrangements, create an atmosphere unlike any that I have experienced! I especially like the very emotional conclusion of the song (Luminous June). Be sure to hear it for yourself!

Sound Quality/Professionalism - 8 out of 10
There is no question that catalog only is a very professional sounding band. When I saw them live, though, I have to admit that I initially had doubts about them! I had spoken with lead vocalist and guitarist Jordan before their set, and he seemed to be a fairly ordinary sort of guy. However, when he took the stage, he did so wearing a Superman cape! If that weren’t enough, the first song began in a very odd way; they just didn’t sound like any band I had ever heard! My reservations were quelled, though, by the end of that first song. The effect that they had on the crowd that had gathered to watch was electric, and I found myself caught up in a great musical experience! Anytime I hear the album now, I am reminded of that experience, and it always brings back good memories. Any band that is able to create that sort of electric feeling again and again when you listen is doing something right!

Packaging – 7.5 out of 10
The packaging of catalog only’s EP is good; the high points for me are definitely the art work on the 4-panel color insert and the back cover of the jewel case, and the way that the lyrics are listed. Written in paragraph fashion, this further supports the feeling of a common theme that runs through the entire album. I read the lyrics for all of the songs as one unit, and wondered in my mind if they had been written in that manner! I like the way that the packaging helps to support the air of intrigue that is initially created in the music!

Favorite Tracks
Luminous June
Behind the Windows
Beat Song
Spring Nights Dream

Overall Rating - 8 out of 10
catalog only has been a great surprise to me! I didn’t expect them to be as good as they are when I originally saw the band live, and I honestly didn’t expect the CD to evoke the same sorts of feelings in me! There is a slight possibility that I might not have the same feelings about the CD if I hadn’t seen the band’s live performance first, but that is something that I will never really know. I am glad that things worked out the way that they did, so that I have a complete understanding of what the band is all about. Take my word for it: this CD is one that you need to hear! Regardless of whether you see the band live or not, you should definitely hear their music on the Solution EP! It is capable of standing on its own, and I think that if you listen with an open mind and really feel the vibe that each song emits, you’ll get hooked, just like I am!—Mark Lush, Midwestbands.com, 10/12/04 *Listen to catalog only on MWB Radio!