UnknownComponent

Regen Magazine

November 1st 2006

www.regenmag.com

Review by Damon Wilson

Think of an underground Bruce Hornsby mixed with a less whimsical Ben Folds, and you might just arrive at the sound of Unknown Component.

Hailing from Iowa City, Iowa, songwriter Keith Lynch has crafted a palatable mix of angst, contemplation, and heartache for this his fourth D.I.Y release, Everything at Once is Nothing All the Time. The album is about as full on unashamed, unapologetic shoegazing as you can find. Keith’s approach to his material seems to be…well, shoegazing.

“In Descending Circles” sets your expectations accurately for the remainder of the album. In music and word, Keith illustrates that he can craft a touching ballad. The production quality is left wanting, as is the tenor of Keith’s vocals. The former is primarily a matter of budget while the latter is completely an artistic choice. Judging from the content, it’s obvious as well that Keith wants to tell a story lyrically as much as he does musically. “If This, Then That” stands out as the strongest possible material for a single. The song is catchy, lyrically visual, and melodically memorable. Here is where the Bruce Hornsby comparison fits in. Again, musically, one can hear the promise yet fully realized by Unknown Component. “Different But The Same” has a beautiful descending bass line that is reminscent of early REM. It is also lyrically one of the most picturesque tracks.

More pop and electronic than folk, more folk than rock this album will be well received by those looking for melodically contemplated ballad-oriented indie rock. On Everything at Once is Nothing All the Time, Unknown Component further refines a strong musical identity. While Keith’s vocals will either be loved or hated, it’s easy to hear that he has a full understanding of the music he is creating.