DOWNLOAD Ashes Divide, Stripped Away MP3

The Stripped Away mp3 reflects a dreamy, atmospheric track with a bass that at first ripples through the tune and then lands with a thud, sucker punching you right in the gut. Howerdel's vocals are high, semi-androgynous, and as smooth as silk. It feels like he’s reaching deep inside his gut to pull this story out. He also plays guitar, bass, and keyboards on the rest of the album.

All and all, this is a tightly woven collection of pretty alt-rock numbers that were inspired by the 90s alt-rock explosion yet that aren’t stuck in that time period. Howerdel keeps things moving forward, thanks to the brilliant touches of keyboards and ambient percussion, particularly in evidence on the Stripped Away track.