Spiraling Challenging Stage (Independent Release) by Rachel Waxman Perhaps Spiraling is being a bit pessimistic by naming their fourth track “You Can’t Get There.” They can- although alterations are definitely in order. “This is unacceptable!” declares lead singer Tom Brislin. And he has a point. The assortment of fun instruments making noise is a commendable attempt to give depth and layers to their sound, but I found myself reaching for my phone each time I heard the Moog.

Decent rock bands are a dime a dozen these days, and I can’t help but feel like I’ve had this experience before. Spiraling is an ambitious modern pop-rock band with a synth-infused edge struggling to perfect the radio-friendly tunes they produce and find a niche all their own. Their lyrics are catchy, but predictable and all too juvenile; the second track, “Ah, Sugar” is a perfect example, as Brislin sings, “Ah sugar, coats everything I see/Sugar makes it easier to swallow this misery/It would make me smile if I still had any teeth/Sugar makes it all taste so very sweet.”

Brislin’s vocals are strong and clear but not distinctive. The skillful piano melodies and tight drumming tells me the band is clearly able; one lyric-writing class and they might actually get there.