Local Album Review: Kyle Crossland Self-Titled EP

Kyle Crossland
Kyle Crossland EP
Cane Records

University of Miami student Kyle Crossland's new self-titled EP is a pleasant mix of easy-listening alternative rock tunes that don't quite approach the acoustic grooviness of Jack Johnson. There are promising moments such as the opening tempo of the EP's first song "Irony," which contains hints of early Unwritten Law and which breaks down into a catchy, though, predictably mediocre chorus. Unfortunately, these qualities seem to define the album: promising but amateurish and too formulaic. However, Crossland does possess the smooth vocals needed for easy-rock listening and, with more complex musical arrangements (he needs a better drummer), he may be someone to look for in the future; and not just in the local bar covering "Margaritaville."