In the Making...

The title of the Nashville quintet's sophomore effort suggests that they have not yet reached their destination, and that characterization seems a good fit after starting a new chapter so soon in their career. In the Making takes a turn for the lighter, landing them more squarely in the piano-based power pop realm. At times, this step away from the faddish emo pop of their debut is a positive, as it seems more suitable for Joshua Pearson's breathy vocals. This shines through on penetrating ballads like "It's No Secret" and "Rest," the latter of which features perhaps the album's most poignant piano hook. The only downside is that the change in mood might blindside the unsuspecting fan. Thankfully, they don't completely abandon their Mae-lite sound; fans will recognize it on the rockers "Cross My Heart" and "Longshot." Overall, the album adds considerable depth to their catalog and attacks their lyrical ideals from a refreshing new direction. Hard to argue with that formula.