Beautiful and Eerie in B Flat

Everything Changes is the third CD from Mesa, Arizona, trio Audra and their first since leaving Projekt Records. The production on this CD was a collaborative effort between Audra's Helm brothers and producer Robb Vallier. The attention given to track sequencing on this album is evident and effective. With Everything Changes, Audra has proven that they can play beyond the darkwave, goth-pop pigeonhole.

The CD opens with "100 Years Old," which starts out with bass and drums, and then slowly adds icy layers of guitars and vocals. The second track, "Everything Changes," stands out as a single. "What's Meant To Be" shows off Bret Helm's powerful baritone voice, and the sing-along chorus of "Just Can't Let Go" is reminiscent of the Pixies. "Jason and the Doors" is beautiful and eerie in b flat, conveying a tragic storyline. "Life on This Planet" is immediately catchy and stands out as the other single on the record. But the artistry in the last track on the CD, "Syd Barrett," is nothing short of inspired. The drums begin as very prominent in the mix, and then as the other instruments build and layers are added, they fade to a subconscious echo that keeps the song anchored. A brilliant, lingering ending for this collection.

Recommend experiencing Everything Changes in its entirety and loudly!

Audra appears at Humphrey's Backstage September 12.

Album title: Everything Changes
Artist: Audra
Label: Unsigned
Songs: 1) 100 Years Old, 2) Everything Changes, 3) What's Meant To Be, 4) Just Can't Let Go, 5) Jason And The Doors, 6) Ocean, 7) Life on This Planet, 8) Plastic Horses, 9) Silver Music, 10) Syd Barrett