Bitter Hands Resign

Album Review

Whether it was caused by yet another lineup change (newer members' Alex McMaster (cello) and Steve Hesselink (percussion), who add to the stellar rock), or an urgency to put atmospheric guitar effects back on the map, the difference from Spirit Flags to Bitter Hands Resign is virtually night and day. With Spirit Flags, A Northern Chorus were comfortable with their dream pop, but they weren't able to lift themselves from mediocrity by simply following the conventions laid down by the original shoegaze bands. The Ontario group's third album is a noticeable improvement, and melds the extended pieces and touching vocals of Sigur Rós with the emotional rock of Appleseed Cast's Two Conversations. A Northern Chorus seem more confident and solid, as they allow their works to drift unhurriedly, yet they always retain a firm command of its direction. And, as if to show A Northern Chorus don't always need to hide behind their instruments, "This Open Heart" ends solely with vocals and lyrics that, like much of this record, are as fragile as snowflakes.