Research Material is yet another pop rocktronica band to cross my ears lately, so I am beginning to think this is a new trend. Sounding like Andy Lehman singing for Dot Dot Dot, L.A.-based Research Material has a hip vibe and commercially viable style. The 4 songs on their new debut EP, “Dictated By Design” are pop rock and dance hybrids that appeal to me because they are driven by a strong sense of melody – big hooks that you don’t mind replaying in your head day after day.
Research Material was named the KLOS (95.5 FM) "pick of the week" and you can already hear their music on MTV, VH1, TLC, Style, E!, and Cartoon Network among others. “Dictated By Design” was produced by Mike Daly (Plain White T's, Sherwood) and mixed by Travis Huff (Fallout Boy, All Time Low). The EP is off to a very accessible start with the radio friendly, “All Year Round”. The follow up track, “The Sun”, radiates with a modern style and possesses a hook that will burn its way into your brain. The final two cuts, “I’ll Be True To You” and “Secrets”, are also worth a listen, but didn’t grab me as immediately as the first two songs.
Both sonically and vocally, Research Material reminds me a lot of Owl City. Fans of 80s music will love the synth work in every track. A lot of commercial potential here, and hopefully the band will inject even more of a rock edge to appease fans on that end of the continuum. Research Material has a full length record and nationwide tour planned for 2011. We’re looking forward to hearing more from these guys!
Research Material on MySpace. Official site.
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