The sophistication of this release is admirable, and reminds us that Avary – even if you shy away from before-mentioned acts – is a musical prodigy, if not genius.  Full text...

Avary labors not to churn out an entirely inventive, musically expanding sound but rather a more generic yet still remarkably entertaining and enjoyable collection. The mix of electric and acoustic guitars works nicely.  Full text...

The release is a notable one as it showcases the talents of Bryce Avary, who is essentially The Rocket Summer. Avary hails from Colleyville, Texas and he has played the majority of the instruments himself on all of the band's releases.   Full text...

At best, The Rocket Summer's nice. That doesn't translate into compelling music, though. Nice guys finish last, be it in the tales of the heart that leave Avary pining away over girls, or in the world of music, where The Early Years comes off as just another dose of teen-pop fluff without much hope of impressing the grownups.  Full text...