When I first saw this CD in the store, I was immediately drawn to it. A band called 1997 that I had never heard of before. The front cover, a black and white photo of someone walking down train tracks in an old mining town, to me, depicted a scene of genuine sincerity. I knew I had to give this band a chance and see what they were all about. I went home and gave them a listen on myspace and was blown away. The next day I was back at the store to purchase 1997 “On the Run.” The band’s sound can only be described as an old antique, yet still vibrant and new, that hangs on the mantle in the living room.

1997 have written a delicate and heartfelt album reminding me of a time when I was young and falling in love was simple. The opening track, “One Track Mind, Four Track Heart,” vocalists Kevin Thomas and Alida Marroni trade off lines, “If only I could find a place to rest. (I’m running in circles)/If only I could see the dreams are all I ever had. (I’m running in circles)/If only I could hold your face again. (I’m running in circles). My heart aches when I hear these lines. It’s the battle that some of us choose to live; the conquest to become extraordinary conflicting with our wanting to settle down with someone we love. Kevin and Alida’s vocal trade off is heard throughout these 11 tracks and their themes of love and heartbreak echo within. By track 10, “Tennessee Song Pt. 2,” Kevin sings, “I’ve been trying to figure you out.” Alida answers, “Are you ever gonna change?” Here the listener realizes that this album is a story about two characters struggling with their love for each other and their personal dreams. In track 11, “On the Run,” our male character deals with letting go of who he loves and asks the question, is it possible to do that.

1997 brings a Nashville sound to the indie rock scene. This album is nothing short of a masterpiece and though this story sounds depressing the band manages to steer away from sapping ballads and depressing lyrics. Though the audience feels for the characters, it shines a light and reminds us how depressing our lives may have been if we had not gone through such difficult and emotional times.