Julian Plenti - Julian Plenti Is...Skyscraper

Interpol have been around for over ten years, survived the jump to a major label, and have a dedicated fanbase clamoring to hear what their next album is going to sound like. It only makes sense then that after experiencing the ups and downs of being in a band that one of Interpol's members (singer/guitarist Paul Banks in this case) would venture out into the world of solo albums. Instead of titling his solo release after his own name, Banks invented a character named Julian Plenti and is set to release his solo debut, Julian Plenti Is...Skyscraper, on August 4th. Blurring the line between Interpol's signature arty post-punk and Banks' love of folk-rock melodies, Julian Plenti is no stranger to catchy hooks ("Fun That We Have"), but it also strives to hit a bit further below the surface, delivering atmospheric textures ("Skyscraper") and Radiohead-reminiscent piano melodies ("No Chance Survival"), all in the span of just over thirty minutes. While I found myself more attracted to Julian Plenti's post-punk Interpol-sounding side, it's interesting to hear Banks branch out on his own, even though he doesn't stray very far from the band that made him famous in the first place. It may take Banks several tries to cultivate his own solo sound, but in the meantime, Julian Plenti is an enjoyable album for those that are looking forward to the new Interpol album.

DOWNLOAD: Julian Plenti - Julian Plenti Is...Skyscraper [Matador]
Recommended Tracks: "Fun That We Have," "Games For Days," "Unwind," "Fly As You Might."