11 Minutes Away - Picking Up The Pieces

1. The Morning After

2. I'm Sorry...

3. Awkward Silence

4. Stalker

5. Forbidden Love

6. Girl Of My Dreams

7. I Get So Bored

8. My Girlfriend

9. Sixteen Forever

10. Perfect Guy

11. Breakup Anxiety

12. Screw Off

11 Minutes Away have released their debut album titled "Picking Up The Pieces." This album is one that sounds like that faster punk rock from the 90's. they have a fast paced punch and really bring that more traditional punk out. These guys have a similar sound to that of an MXPX, Slick Shoes and even The Ataris, so if you like these bands, you could really like this album. They have done a decent job here. 

When looking at the recording quality of this album, the album has been recorded to an alright standard.  It has a rough punk standard that seems to go along with artists debut albums for the most part. With a clearer and more crisp recording, it seems like it could be enjoyed more, but it's alright for a first album. The instrumentation on this album isn't too much to write home about either. Yes the band can play, and they can play fast, there isn't really much here to show the band is doing anything that really separates them from other bands in the genre, or really makes you turn an ear. Not band though, they can play.

Now onto the vocals and lyrics, the vocals on this album are not the greatest. This has an early blink sound to the vocals, which isn't bad but more like a starting point. The backing vocals are certainly not as strong, which is pretty noticeable. You can hear that there is some potential here, but as of right now, it needs work. With the lyrics, the band goes for songs about relationships, girls, etc. This seems to be the basis of most of their songs. Those lyrics are a little cliche, and what a lot of bands are singing about, but since this is a first album, it's kind of expected. Hopefully with the next album they get a little more complex in this area.

If you are looking for a single to this album, there isn't one, so just pick a song and give it a listen to get an idea of this album. 

11 Minutes Away have written an album that really shows off their pure punk sound, and give you an idea of the direction and sound of the band. They have done a pretty good job all in all. We can't wait to see what the band comes up with next. Give this album a listen to decide for yourself what you think about it. They have since called it quits (R.I.P.)

Genre: Punk

Release Date: 2001

Location: Burlington, Ontario

Label: East End Industries