The indie rock quartet from Toronto flew under the radar with its ethereal
self-titled effort on Credential Recordings.  Filled with rhythmic prowess
and atmospheric reverb, the album is a gem of modern rock.  The Walker
brothers’ carefully orchestrated guitar licks sound much like Coldplay
without any world ambitions.  Just when you think you’ve heard this sound
before, you can’t put your finger on another band that they truly imitate.
The band names Switchfoot, Delirious? and U2 as influences in the liner
notes, although the broodiness of Radiohead and toad the wet sprocket also
come to mind.  In fact, Hours & Days sounds like it could be a studio cut
from toad’s Coil or Dulcinea sessions.  Don’t expect any hooks that lack
substance; these riffs are developed to full maturity without the bombast of
emo.  The infectious choruses on Falling Into You and 30 Days take you to
new places.  Brightside brings out an Oasis-like cheeriness with a perfected
falsetto and simple guitar strumming, in contrast to the haunting
multi-meter rock of Nowhere Skies, Please and If Only.  Most lyrics remain
ambiguous; it’s unclear if they are directed to a Supreme Being or a love
interest.  Regardless of who they are talking to, Turn Off the Stars packed
this album with some of the best alternative rock since A Rush of Blood to
the Head.
-allmusicguide.com

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