ALBUM REVIEW: Innocent

“I’ve been loving you for some time/ And you knew that,” sings Ben Roter (lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for Quarters Of Change) on their lovely second EP. “But you ran off again with some guy.” “Innocent” is the band’s latest recording, released on the 26th of last month. The album is extremely upbeat and positive-sounding, despite the lyrics that point to things like damaged relationships, toxic traits, and being guilted into things.

Quarters Of Change is an alternative rock band founded during their sophomore year of high school in “their school’s basement, where they would stay after hours and hide from school security.” The group recorded their self-titled LP there; it was later released in 2018. Following an array of singles – and two albums – was “Innocent.” The inspiration for the EP “comes from the craft of songwriting, and how songwriting is an outlet for speaking about the unspoken.”

From the opening seconds of “Innocent,” the listener is effortlessly hooked. Often, second albums are hard – or even tedious – things to craft. Sometimes, musicians find themselves stuck trying to balance what has previously worked and trying out entirely new sounds. It’s a possible “make-or-break” moment.

With “Innocent,” Quarters Of Change succeeds at finding that balance. It’s an EP that carries over the best bits from their first album while pushing forward new sounds and techniques.

The EP opens with “Dancin’,” a pre-COVID-based track that talks about the obstacle “of not wanting to go out and being guilted by others to do so.” Beginning with an energetic beat and catchy lyrics, the track really pulls you into the group’s captivating world. A strong vocalist, an engaging backbeat, and rich guitar and bass lines, “Dancin'” checks all of the above.

With “Down That Road,” the group does a lovely job of really engaging their audience; the track’s sound and feel are beyond amazing. Giving off a sort of 80s/90s sound, “Down That Road” sticks out quite a bit. Mostly, the song is reminiscent of something by “Gorillaz,” though they add their unique twist to it. “The second track on the EP expresses the indulgence in toxic traits and living a carefree life in those 4 minutes.”

The final track, “Innocent,” is all about a past relationship where a lot of things were left unsaid, “leaving the sense of innocence behind.” The song was instantly one of my favorites. “Innocent” is the type of piece that has you sitting there questioning everything. At the same time, the song is exhilarating.

Overall, the EP is brilliant. With a sophomore full-length album coming later this year, I am on the edge of my seat. I suggest “Quarter Of Change” to fans of Alternative-rock to Indie-pop.