Cry Wolves

Childhood friends Michael Harris and Daniel Anderson dreamt of becoming rock stars when they grew up. At age 19, the childhood friends and members that make up Idiot Pilot, saw their dreams become reality when they were signed by Reprise Records in 2005. Not to be outdone by other artists on Reprise Records, like The Used and Story of the Year, their unique and optimistic sound drew large crowds when they were featured on the Taste of Chaos Tour last year. Now, with their second record Wolves recently released, the boys are ready to start touring with their sincere sound. Idiot Pilot has a strangely awkward sound that is extremely catchy and wholesome. Wolves definitely outshines their first record, Strange We Should Meet Here. Harris and Anderson looked for outside help and collaboration for this record, which was a first for them. Thanks to former Blink 182 members, drummer Travis Barker and bassist Mark Hoppus, Idiot Pilot was able to achieve what they thought was unimaginable. “I think we’re probably one of the more difficult bands they’ve worked with because we have such a strong idea of what we want,” says Harris. Wolves opens with the song, “Last Chance,” that will lure the listener in. As you progress throughout the album, a strong use of synthesizers, chimes and heavy double bass pedals gives a harder edge to Idiot Pilot’s sound. Although they resemble the sounds of MuteMath, Radiohead and the vocals of The Killers, Harris and Anderson change up the vocal pitches throughout each song. It would be hard to classify this band, because three out of 10 songs featured would be considered ‘screamo’ fashion. It’s not all screams though; Idiot Pilot shows a softer side with their track “Cruel World Enterprise,” as its chorus sings, “Concentrate on making love.”First time listeners should definitely listen to the track on this record titled “Retina and The Sky.” After listening, you’ll appreciate and respect their emotional and positive nature. We all have bad days at times, and it is refreshing to hear vocals like, “I can see, the day turning bright… up ahead.” Idiot Pilot certainly made their second album something for everyone.Test Idiot Pilot out for yourself. They will be opening for the second time with the Taste of Chaos tour at the Aragon Ballroom, Tue, March 11. Headliners are Avenged Sevenfold, Bullet for My Valentine and Atreyu. Tickets are $35, doors open at 3:30 p.m. and the show starts at 5:00 p.m. Se you there.