Record Label: I Surrender Records
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Although it can sound a little bit Fall Out Boyish at times, Valencia’s “This Could Be A Possibility” has definite possibilities of it’s own. The occasional double vocals are not cheesy as one might expect, but are harmonious and done well (a refreshing change from every Taking Back Sunday wanna be who tries their hand at having two singers). The album itself exhibits the band’s diversity as musicians, going from the softer opener, “The Space Between” to a slightly heavier “Que Sera Sera”. This becomes a problem for Valencia at one point on the CD, and that’s “Tenth Street”, which follows “What Are You Doing, Man? That’s Weird!”, which is probably the best song on the album. The mellow and slightly whiny “Tenth Street” is such a downer when compared to its predecessor. The album quickly gains back its momentum and especially redeems itself with “Will We Ever Know Why”.

Compared to a combination of Saves The Day and Thrice, Valencia is more along the lines of a slightly pop-punk Senses Fail/MxPx. Their sound is a refreshing change from the barrage of screamo/emo that’s been bombarding the music scene. Each band member has an interesting background, from Shane, an ex-Eagles beer-man to Brendan, one of 32 people to get sued for file sharing. This diversity is evident through their music, which seems to draw influence from every corner of each of the member’s lives.

Bottom Line: Don’t judge this album by it’s low budget-looking cover. Disregard your preconceived expectations for this album; it is certainly worth listening to.
Notable Tracks: “What Are You Doing, Man? That’s Weird!”, “Backs Against The Wall” and “The Closest I Am To Living Life On The Edge” (which sounds like it must be amazing live).
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