So, This Is How It Is – Nymb

Singer Elaine Doty showcases her far-reaching, wandering vocals on Nymb's full length, So, This Is How It Is. However, only as this 11 song album reaches a climax with the songs "Gesundheit = Bon Voyage" and "Need For Attention" do Doty's vocals differentiate remarkably from the rest of the package. On the two aforementioned songs, painful lyrics mixed with hardcore screams and an indie rock rhythm section showcase Nymb at their best. Most likely, these two tracks would be an even bigger treat live. The album closes with "Timeline," a peaceful tune where Doty's vocals swirl and the guitars ebb and flow as the record slowly winds down. This is quite splendid and very nicely done. Unfortunately, the other eight songs leading up to this pinnacle lead the listener down a path so redundant it might appear paved due to its heavy usage. The guitars and rhythm -- these speak well enough for themselves. It's Doty's vocals, which although audible, can't seem to find their notch with the more aggressive stylings of indie rock which Nymb plays. Vocally, she seems suited more for a Slowdive, My Bloody Valentine-type sound, while the music is akin to Chicago math rock mixed with a good bit of poppy indie rock. While there are nice beats, every time the groove starts to get a foot tapping, the vocals reappear and force the listener to check their conceptions at the door once again, thereby disallowing complete enjoyment of Nymb's methods. ~ Kurt Morris, All Music Guide