Out of Ashland, Ohio comes indie rock act Bel Auburn. These guys are unlike anything you've heard before, somehow giving new meaning to the phrase "melodic rock" and yet never losing their indie-edge. They're the kind of band that you are either going to love or hate. There's not really much room for middle ground here.

Cathedrals opens with "The Speed of Sound," a four-and-a-half minute song with a mere five lines. The opening guitar riffs play out like the beginning of an emo-flavored song, and it's over a minute into the track before the vocals finally kick in. Unique in and of themselves, the vocals are somewhat reminiscent of the equally as unique vocals of House of Heroes or Sleeping at Last. They seem to be distant, yet intimate.

Lyrically, romantic love seems to be the topic of choice. Though, sometimes, it appears the band may be talking about a love for God, and the love He has for us. The difference is never clearly defined. The songs are all very well written, however, adding even more depth to this superb release.

Bel Auburn is a band to keep your eyes on. The recording quality is not up to par, but these guys have enough going for them to get a long way in the music industry, possibly even mainstream. Bel Auburn has an incredible future to look forward to, and I anticipate it greatly.

- Review date: 05/19/04, written by Josh Taylor