Not many family bands since the Partridge Family have earned the means to tour across the nation. Eisley, made up of four siblings and a best friend have recently joined the ranks of the Partridges with the release of "Room Noises," their Reprise Records debut.
"Room Noises" is an album of reflective melancholy prose. Three DuPree sisters - Stacy, Chauntelle, and Sherri - collaborate with their brother Weston and friend Jonathan Wilson to receive comparisons to The Cardigans and Sixpence None the Richer with their female vocalists mixed with not-too-rough guitar.
"Memories" begins the album with a gloomy tone that continues throughout the disc. The song tells a tale of a woman reminded of her late husband who committed suicide. The subject matter may be dark, but lighthearted chords confuse the listener.
"How small seeds gracefully do grow/ Into beautiful things that spring from these rows/ With their beautiful names and beautiful sounds," sing both Sherri and Stacy DuPree in harmony on "Memories."
"Room Noises" continues with the same feel through most its tracks. They stick to their strong suit most often, leaving the listener begging for some variation.
Deviation comes in the songs "Golly Sandra," "Plenty of Paper," and "Trolley Wood," which feature a steel guitar, a synthesizer, and snaps and claps. The steel guitar and hand rhythms are a telltale sign of the group's Tyler, Texas roots.
Eisley is consistent on "Room Noises" and knows what their strengths are, which is more than many bands can say. However, it would be beneficial for the group to look for growth into new sounds on future albums, as many of the songs on their debut simply rehash their 2003 EP releases, "Marvelous Things" and "Laughing City."
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
