THE APRIL TEARS HALF-CLOSED EYES, IMPERFECT KISSES ALBUM DEAD FROG RELEASE: MARCH 8, 2004 REVIEW: MARCH 11, 2004

This collection of songs is part of the story of what happened to Sweden’s most unlucky band – The April Tears. To cut a long story short, this album contains material that was supposed to make up parts of the band's follow-up to their debut album “Strange Paradise”. The second album called “Eyes Cold Kisses” never happened, but instead we got the acclaimed “Consume Desire” with mostly new compositions. The April Tears have now decided to release a lot of the songs that were meant for their second album, and this is the result. It doesn't stop there however, because this collection also includes very early material, up to music from the late nineties.
The greatness of this band has somewhat eluded me, but I can agree that they have a unique sound, mainly because of their singer Sara Gunnarsson. Again, I can’t say that I really like they way she sings as it just sounds too frail and thin to me.
The songs all sound a bit rough and uneven which is to be expected, but there are some gems to be found. They are however too scarce for my taste. The rock/guitarpop songs are mixed with more electronic numbers, but they just don't make any impression. As a historical document this is fascinating, but in my opinion, you’re better of with the “real” albums.

JOHAN CARLSSON