Delaware based alt-rockers Surreal Nation complete their metamorphosis from acoustic folk duo to a rockin’ wall of sound featuring delectable guitar tones, engaging arrangements, and just the right amount of rock and roll attitude.

I Know Better is a concept album which takes us on a journey with the lead female character as she navigates Hollywood during it’s golden age. Let’s jump into chapter 1.

Kicking off with Would You Do Me The Honor Of Being My Mexican Divorce, the band rocks out while the quest for true love outweighs the need for expensive items intended to portray affection. Uptempo, energetic and packed full of stimulating, ear grabbing guitar tones; the solo toward the end of the song ensures us we are in for a rock and roll treat.

I Know Better, the title track, enters our senses with a slower, more mellow vibe but soon picks up the pace as our lead female realizes she has entered some sketchy territory in her new relationship. Driving rhythm, passionate harmonizing vocals, and more of those beautiful guitar tones create a haunting atmosphere. Let’s hope our damsel in distress makes it out in one piece.

I Can Feel This Night transitions us into a more poppy, uplifting soundscape which sets the tone for our lead lady’s descent into despair as night lingers into daylight and a fresh morning. With precise consistency, tasty guitars drive the song through catchy licks, riffs and melodies. The bass really shines on as it resonates through the darkness into the rising sun.

Hangtime enters with crisp hi-hats and snares backing, once again, beautiful guitar tones picking beautiful melodies. With a catchy vocal melody and easily memorable lyrics, this track weaves through smooth transitions which keep listeners engaged, interested, and stimulated. I’m really digging this one.

The final chapter, Spirit Is Silent, is a painful look at a loved one struggling through substance abuse issues. A melancholy vibe is driven by a catchy guitar melody. The soulful and intimate vocal performance aptly pulls us into the moment and the issue in front of us. This song triggers the emotions as it causes you to reflect on those in your life who might be suffering through the same struggle.

Paul Joseph and Nikki Nation met when their sons played on the same soccer team. Years passed but eventually, after hearing Nikki singing some Dashboard Confessional, the creative talents joined forces as a duo playing in coffee shops and at open mics. Desiring a bigger sound, they soon added bassist Jackson Vari.

This is what Paul had to say about the album,

These songs were written over a time period that began with Jackson and I both being in dark places in our lives, but ended with us coming out of those places and being better for having those experiences.”

Listen to the lead single, I Know Better, below or connect with the band on Soundcloud to discover more music.