Symphony Soldier

iTunes Review

With their second studio album, the Cab steps up their game in songwriting and performance as well as in business — the Las Vegas quintet paid for every nuance of this recording, refusing to owe any money to a record label. “Angel With a Shotgun” opens with a string orchestra and vocal choir padding the foundation of a catchy power-pop tune that’s cleverly disguised as a power ballad. “Bad” tastefully flirts with R&B balladry before segueing into a festive sing-along, sounding a little like Bruno Mars — who co-wrote the following tune “Endlessly.” A sweeping serenade that overflows with sentimental boy-next-door adoration, the song sounds like it was carefully crafted for Valentine mixes and wedding reception first-dances. The Cab balances out this love jam with a playfully raunchy gem, “Animal.” Here, a Justin Timberlake inspired-vocal oozes from the chorus before the band simmers back down into “Intoxicated,” a tune that somehow successfully blends party anthem and love song importing hints of Dangerous-era Michael Jackson. The uplifting “Living Louder” closes the album strongly.