Garnering many comparisons to
Shudder to Think,
Camden appeared in the ever-widening emo universe in 2000 with a melodic blast of ultra-clean falsetto melodies and surprisingly rich songwriting. Referencing many a Midwestern indie rock and shoegazer influence,
Reel Time Canvas exists well outside convenient descriptions or genre tags. The term "emo" had practically lost all meaning after its punk-pop takeover but, despite an absence of anything that smacks of hardcore in either strain, the sullen, experimental, and melodic slant of
Camden does have more than a little in common with
Sunny Day Real Estate, and thus emo by extension. But, of course, if
Camden -- or any group for that matter -- deserves real notice, it is because the bandmembers have defined something for themselves. This definition is exactly what
Reel Time Canvas accomplishes. From the hymn-like "How to Make America Proud" to the loud/quiet pop of "Is Our Face Red," this record screams "quality" with a whisper so shocking that even the most jaded emo haters will have to back off and give a little respect. ~ Vincent Jeffries