The debut full-length album from these musical wanderers — who are based out of New York but hail from London — is a true rock gem. Their sound falls somewhere in between the Byrds and Nirvana; not a bad place to be musically. Each song is individually great but also fits into the overall cohesive sound of the album.
Their wall of noise buzzes and grinds through the 10 songs at an agitated pace. Lead vocalist Petter Ericson Stakee has a very unique tenor to his voice that sounds like a bird and a chainsaw and often like both at the same time. Listening to Broken Side of Time might not be the most enjoyable experience of your life, but it will definitely feel like time well spent.
In the Song “ATX,” the band beats you over the head with a killer distorted slide guitar riff. Petter sings, “I just want to feel, cause I just can’t relate,” like a depressed stalker in search of happiness. It’s a beautiful moment on the album and really showcases the power of Alberta Cross.
The groove of “City walls” is so catchy it will have you growling along after just one listen. Being more subdued than the rest of the album, this song still maintains its authenticity and raw emotion. In the angry title track, “Broken Side of Time,” every instrument is played with aggression and every lyric sung with fury. Being a song about growing up in the wrong era and feeling out of place makes you stop and think — maybe he’s right. Maybe this is the broken side of time?
Alberta Cross is just what rock music needs right now — they are a band that can play the hell out of their instruments and they write timeless songs. They could have been written 30 years ago or 30 years in the future. Either way they will always sound great and relevant. The sustainability of a band lies in their talent and ability to stay true to their sound. Alberta Cross has the integrity to do that.
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