You know that “Ahh” sound you make after taking a gulp of an ice cold Coke on a hot day? If my ears could make that sound, they would have after hearing The Venetia Fair’s new release aptly titled The Circus. This strange, erratic attack on the senses is a wonderful escape from the drab, lifeless grind that seems to have gripped the music scene lately. New artists coming out, offering up countless helpings of the same thing over and over has dragged me into a rut, but The Venetia Fair has yanked me out by the ears and captured my full attention. A literal circus of sounds, The Venetia Fair offer up a refreshingly new and exciting sound that might come across a little chaotic at first, but by the end of track one, I promise you will be hooked on the auditory stimulation these boys have to offer.

Their sound is electric and fierce – a cross between Panic! At The Disco and The Used. At times, vocalist Benny Santoro even seems to carry a hint of Gerard Way (My Chemical Romance) in his melodies. Their song composition is experimental and fun. They seem to enjoy what they do and it shows in their work. The lyrics are catchy and edgy, and the guitar work is brazen yet beautiful and captivating at the same time. A mixture of complex rhythms and simple melodies that make for what would best be described as a musical spectacle.

The album opens on a track called “A Man Like Me” and, personally, I was instantly hooked. The start-stop rhythms and insane guitar riffs give it a sound like no other. This song offered up a feel similar to My Chemical Romance which I loved, and the vibratos in Benny’s vocals reminded me a lot of Gerard Way. The energy in this song is remarkable, and I promise if you give this song ninety seconds, you will be on board.

Track four “Because You’re Lonely (The Circus)” gives Joe Occhiuti a chance to show off his talent; his piano work throughout this album really defines their sound and his contribution should not go unnoticed. That also goes for guitarist (and Napoleon Dynamite look-a-like) Mr. Chark whose guitar chops far exceed his fashion consciousness. This entire band complements each other so well, you will lose yourself in their music.

Every song on this record is worth a spin; and to truly appreciate The Venetia Fair, you must listen to the entire album straight through. I will say this, track eight, “Gullinkambis Return,” sounds like it was written for a Tim Burton film and is just fantastic.

In summary, the feeling you get when listening to The Venetia Fair is what makes their sound so inviting. You feel happy and carefree. The energy is insane and it remains strong through the entire album. I challenge each and every one of you to give this record a fair chance because I am sure that it’s only a matter of time before the entire world is aware of this five piece out of Boston, MA. This is a don’t miss record.

5.0/5