Apart

"Apart" packs 11 distinct and diverse songs into one overall great record. Lyrically it is profoundly personal, at times seemingly almost as if he put melodies to journal entries. Musically it is refined and very well put together. What is most notable about the record is how different each of the songs sounds. Each song has an identity of its own, sharing at times only Sean's voice and guitar talents. Hypnotizing and calm, "Release" brings an added bonus, backing vocals by Glen Phillips (formerly of Toad the Wet Sprocket). "Count me out" is raw and powerful, reminiscent of early music from Filter. The piano based "Burn" is emotional and honest while "Feel the Love Again" sings subtle tribute to the Cure's "Lovesong." Sean has done a great job of making 11 very different songs live perfectly together in one place. "Apart" has a song for every mood, each crafted masterfully and narrated thoughtfully by Sean.

Well, I have heard Sean's Music when he was in SummerCamp. And, I was wondering how his solo album was going to turn out and, if it was going to be just as good when he was ins SummerCamp. Turns out...Its even better. Sean, ou still got it. These songs are great. The song writting is amazing. And, I cant wait to see what else you got up your sleeve. And, I cant wait to hear this LIVE.

Now that's what I'm talkin' about! I've been patiently waiting for an album to come along that satiates the hunger for meaningful music and speaks to one's higher self - but when appropriate, isn't afraid to stand up and ROCK! This is a body of work that guides you on an adventurous journey - yet allows you to feel safe at home. Each song on the record borrows a piece of your soul and returns it to you in better condition. McCue's mastery of the guitar creates a fulcrum on which the album easily pivots from the acoustic based anthem "Release" - which takes you to a beautiful place and actually lets you hang out there for a while - to downright chewy electric chunk on "Count Me Out." Gliding smoothly alongside the guitar work are McCue's vocals - solid, dead-on and always well placed and harmonized. The piano based "Burn" comes along at the right time and touches down softly. "Gonna Be a While" is a steady climb to one of them most satisfying free-for-all rock jams that I've ever heard - and when it's over and the crackling of amps cooling down slowly fade - "Feel the Love Again" saunters in to become your best friend and keep you warm at night. Production quality is as good as it gets - with every instrument sounding like it's wired straight to your brain - doing beautiful justice to the precisely inspired drum work of Ramy Antoun. Brett Simons' bass skillfully and unobtrusively weaves it's way through the record and gives you someplace to solidly plant your feet while you ride this magical ride. Apart is an artfully presented musical feast born of powerfully enacted intention.