[11.02] The Appleseed Cast is a band I only really became aware of with their splendid and sprawling double CD Low Level Owl—a hypnotic, droney post-rock experiment, somewhat in the vein of toned-down Mogwai. In the past, Appleseed's reputation had been that of an emo band, with their early efforts drawing comparisons to bands like Sunny Day Real Estate. With their new CD, Lost Songs, The Appleseed Cast return to their emo roots. While there are ambient parts and sonic experiments that echo last year's release, such as on the album closer "Novice Ambient Cannibalization," overall, Lost Songs exposes their emo roots, with the occasional trademark energetic vocals, yet manage to steer clear of the formulaic dime-a-dozen emo screamers that can get so tiring.

Like At the Drive-In (one of my favorites in the emoish genre, due to their ability to add something vital to the formula—or rather—drive a truck right through it), The Appleseed Cast adds something new to the mix. It certainly is more subtle than ATDI, bringing the sonic experimentation that was the center point of Low Level Owl to the emo fest. But there is something more elemental to this album that I cannot put my finger on. Sweet poppiness is sprinkled throughout the CD, such as on track 2, reminiscent of lighter indie fare like Death Cab for Cutie. Some parts remind me of the Replacements. And other parts, such as track 4, are intense, muscular and melodic pieces of rock music similar to could-have-beens-American-alt-rockers the Goo Goo Dolls and Soul Asylum. Both had decent debuts, were tipped for greatness, and went for the wrong kind of glory. They are now in VH-1 heaven, and most have forgotten from whence they came. But they were (for a short while) bearers of the American "not-mainstream" torch. Lost Songs brings to mind the heritage of a variety of '80s alt-rockers, updating the sound for the emo-generation.

Though I am more partial to the experiments of Low Level Owl than emo as a genre, Lost Songs is a strong slab of song writing that adds depth to the emo song book, and references a generation of American rock. It's a thoroughly enjoyable album, and one that I am sure will translate very well to their live show. —Nils