While the similarly named Low Anthem may be receiving all the buzz these days, Anthem In may find itself worthy of diverting at least some of that attention its way as well. Last year’s eponymous debut proved a surprise entry in the race for rookie of the year although far too few people took enough notice to help them to qualify. With this five-song follow-up, a stopgap measure at best, the band attempt to continue the momentum, presumably while in preparation for a formal full-length follow up. The Cloudbusting EP does a splendid job of doing just that, showcasing the Brooklyn band’s ability to tweak different textures and shifting moods into a sleeper of a set that takes a bit longer to sink in, but makes a most dramatic imprint once it does. The darkly ruminating title track - a telling cover of the Kate Bush composition -- suggests an impressive introduction, while the hushed tones of “Universal” allow for an equally intriguing entry. Still, the song likely to gain the group the most mileage here will be the final offering, “Leanings,” a track that builds steadily with enough obvious resolve to leave an enduring impression. Anthem In’s insistent sound is still gelling, but with The Cloudbusting EP, a deluge of superlatives could be about to begin.
--Lee Zimmerman [July 6, 2009]
