Riot in The Orchard

© Doron Gild

Syracuse, New York quintet Ra Ra Riot has come a long way since their formation. Although The Orchard is only the group’s second album, it displays obvious growth and unity that was hinted at but never quite nailed in 2008’s The Rhumb Line.

The past few years have certainly provided Ra Ra Riot with the chance to grow as one; the tragic death of their songwriter and drummer John Pike, the constant touring both in small venues and on the festival circuit all seem to have contributed to the maturity and precision that is brought to each song on The Orchard.

The album kicks off with Ra Ra Riot’s signature strings, provided with ease by violinist Rebecca Zeller and cellist Alexandra Lawn. It is their contributions that wrap The Orchard in its melancholy, and move any pop vocals back into the realm of sweet lullaby.

Their chords seem to hit more determined and well-thought-out notes with less room for indecision, which is also reflected in the lyrics of the songs. Throughout the album Wes Miles’ clear and genuine vocals communicate the importance of finding oneself in spite of all else. Tracks like “Foolish” repeat the mantra “Well I won’t waste any more of your time,” acknowledging the inevitability of a broken relationship and moving on from it. Yet the album still revolves around love and love lost, each song imploring an absent lover to “remember” or “listen” or “feel.” 

Although this album is strong and coherent, fans of Ra Ra Riot’s first album, The Rhumb Line, may find themselves coming away from The Orchard without being able to latch on to a single favorite track. While the songs of this new record flow well together and the album feels complete, it is hard to pick the ten tracks apart by individual song or find a specific tune that stays with you.

That said, the most outstanding pieces are those with the sweetest and saddest strings, including “The Orchard,” “You and I know” and “Shadowcasting” (which also balances a great upbeat pop rhythm). Although these songs are lovely on their own, they seem to be brighter and more effective when played with the rest of the album. So, download the whole thing, and riot on.