SONG REVIEW: Pine Creek Academy - "Echo"
“The newest addition to your manic cleaning playlist that will make you dance”
by Jesse Smith
Coming from the great state of Pennsylvania is Pine Creek Academy. No that isn’t a place, but a kick ass new pop punk band! Fresh on the scene, Pine Creek Academy started releasing music earlier this year with the first single being “Mosh Pit” back in January. Recently, the band released their third single titled “Echo” and for being only three singles in, this band really has it down to a science. This pop punk outfit has an incredible sense of melody and uniqueness that makes it seem like they’re a seasoned act. From the aesthetic of the band to the music, Pine Creek Academy has what it takes to really make a name for themselves and quickly and this new single proves it.
The beginning of the song has some 90’s pop punk influence mixed with a modern emo vibe, immediately it’s different and ear grabbing. Vocals to me are a huge deal and I’ve said it before, great vocals can make or break your song, luckily vocalist Keith Gensure kills it from the gate. As the song progresses you can see, feel and hear it switch to the more modern midwest style when there is a high octave in the vocals, this carries for all of the song in and out but it truly adds some dynamic to the song. The song is very dancey like up and coming pop punk stars The Home Team are known for doing. The dancey-ness is only cranked up when the chorus comes. In fact, in my opinion the highlight of the song is the chorus and there is where the song is so memorable to me. Without breaking it down and giving away too much, the up beat break in the chorus is so unique and well written that it is sure to make you stay and listen. Along with having the modern pop punk vibe, they also have a midwest emo element to their delivery to where if you like midwest emo but sometimes hate the whinney-ness of the vocals, Pine Creek Academy has got you covered. From front to back, the song is a fun and entertaining listen. It’s one of those songs that immediately puts you in a good mood and makes you dance while you’re manically cleaning your house.
This release is accompanied by a music video that is the perfect depiction of the overall message of the song. “Echo is about Karma playing its part” says the band, “Everything comes with consequences and you can't run forever”. Like I said in the beginning, this band gives a seasoned vibe and they don’t look or feel new (in a good way). I love the look and vibe of the band and if they keep up with the dance breaks in their music, they will for sure be grabbing attention everywhere. Just add them to the long list of great PA bands.