Earlimart's latest work is nothing if not lovely. The band comprising primarily of Aaron Espinoza and Ariana Murray, has been a staple in the LA indie rock scene. With quietly driven guitar riffs and soaring harmonies. Mentor Tormentor is the bands most cohesive album yet.

“Fakey Fakey” kicks off the album and coaxes you into Espinoza’s and Murray’s acoustic guitar and piano driven work. It continues to build into an album highlight “ Answers and Questions”. Beginning with Espinoza’s plaintive vocals, the track grows into a crescendo of sound with an entire string section at its core.

While Espinoza usually dominates in the lyrical arena, Murray’s song “Happy Alone” is a treat. With its simple piano and lyrics like “would it be fair to say that you’re in love with love” and “ I’ve always known … I’d rather be happy alone” it is a quiet highlight. Unfortunately the album hits a snag in the droning qualities of “ The Little Things” and “700>100”. Luckily the filler quality of these songs really highlights “ Everybody knows Everybody” which is easily the best track on the album. As the most guitar driven and heavy sounding song, it’s a breath of fresh air that revives a sometimes stagnant sound. It also exhibits Earlimart’s musical versatility, which is often only seen in live shows.

Strong melodies highlight Espinoza's and Murray's music writing abilities, however at times it seems as though their beautiful words and sound cannot mask monotonous areas within the record. With 15 songs, “ Gonna Break into Your Heart” and the afore mentioned tracks are unnecessary and mar an otherwise excellent album.

Grade: B

Reviewed by: Kristen Tojo