I will never understand why Gratitude were not absolutely huge. Considering the band was rumored to have gotten a million dollar advance, you would think Atlantic would have actually chosen to promote them. What can you say? Major labels are dumb.
The band’s one and only record, 2005’s Self-Titled affair, was absolutely huge in every aspect: production, melodies and the incredibly indulgent vocals of Jonah Matranga (Far, Onelinedrawing, New End Original). Despite the cheese factor that comes into play at times, Gratitude succeeded in writing a simple and honest record. Obvious Jimmy Eat World influences abound but the band kept a remarkable distance from the trends otherwise. The band also included ex-Crumb (another great band!) guitarist Mark Weinberg, bassist Bob Lindsey, guitarist Jeremy Tappero, and drummer Dave Jarnstrom. Lindsey, Tappero and Jarnstrom are all in Attention now.
Gratitude “This Is The Part”
Yep. I had this CD, very good for emo-y music. Jonah’s pretty talented. He used to play at this club in New Hampshire that was my home club growing up. I think he dated my friend Christina. This was during Far.
I really love Jonah’s voice, but i can’t help but feel underwhelmed by the instrumentation on the album. More interesting guitars may have added longevity to the record.
Will, Gratitude is amazing. My wife and I (in ‘06) saw Attention open for Jonah playing solo and then get up and play about a half-dozen Gratitude songs. Amazing. Jonah is amazing. I feel a lot like you do about this album. You can read exactly how I thought about it back in 1995 here:
http://www.canyouseethesunset.com/article/all-fired-up-about-nothing-at-all
Maybe a little interesting.