I first learned about The Funeral Portrait about seven months ago when I was emailed their debut album, For the Dearly Departed, mp3s. I was skeptical after doing a bit of research, because TFP is the definition of an unknown band. Because of their limited fan base, I assumed mediocrity. I can tell you right now that I never could have been more wrong.
As I hit the play button to song one, “Casanova (C’est La Vie),” a catchy riff filled my ears. A light background of cymbal accompanies the perfect balance of guitar and synthesizer until all fades away into a melancholy chord. At this point, a musty, semi-deep voice sings out, “I’d rather bury you alive than bear the burden that you keep ‘cause you’re a poison in my veins. I’ll never say surrender.” A quick transition leads the listener into the gloriously upbeat sounds of pop rock that features clever guitar work mixed with strategic drumming that adds excellent splashes of sound. The most curious voice leads the entire ensemble, weaving and winding with a Serj Tankian-esque timbre and five-star range.
“Wax Romantic,” the closing song to this masterpiece, starts out more as a tribute to the metalcore scene, featuring vicious screams and a driving, punk-reminiscent drumbeat. However, this doesn’t last long; within thirty seconds, The Funeral Portrait returns to their trademark sound that draws from pond on p, ska, and polka but always stay true to the instrumental intelligences of rock and metal. Next comes the catchy chorus that they are so excellent at crafting: “this is the part where I apologize for everything I’ve done, and when my world is torn asunder, will you go underneath with me?”
The Funeral Portrait is one of my greatest musical discoveries. Their music is brilliantly written, and the members are at heart true musicians. If they play their cards right, they will become the next big rock band.
Their music can be found on Youtube and iTunes.
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