The Envy Corps – Story Problem

• 22nd Apr 2008

Iowa’s finest release their ‘Story Problem’ this week. There is something oddly familiar about this track yet it still possesses its own originality and cleverness. Having previously appeared on the ‘Run Fat Boy Run’ original soundtrack, some of you may already be loving this song.

There is that obvious American-ness to the song, which kind of put me off slightly. For me, I seem to be deeply attracted to British groups, and find them much more grittier and exciting, (and no that’s not just because I oh so love my country!) however as I am supposed to write a review about The Envy Corps’ new track I need to let that little niggly feeling slide, slightly.

Whether they care to admit their more serious influences or not, there is a noticeable Arcade Fire approach in the music, paying particular attention to the thick accompaniment and making the song sound much more than just the lyrics and a beat. Towards the end of the song, the lead vocals could almost be mistaken for The Strokes. But whatever I have written here, take no notice, as if you check out their myspace, it clearly states that their one and only influence is ‘early Hannah Montana’. Damn, how did I miss that one?

Much is written about The Envy Corps all over the net, and it is all good stuff, they haven’t got anyone’s backs up yet. So do some research and gear yourself up for their new album, hey, might as well plug it for them whilst I’m here. If ‘Story Problem’ is anything to go by then I’m sure it will be a stonker.