The Constellations: Do It For Free

The sophomore pressure is on for Atlanta outfit the Constellations, whose debut Southern Gothic netted the group an enviable chunk of radio airplay (courtesy infectious single “Felicia”) and spots on TV soundtracks. Do It For Free is an album of unobtrusive, organ-driven soul-pop with few true standouts at hand. “April” pointedly details the tragic fall of a North Avenue prostitute and thematically and sonically, it feels like “Felicia” part two. “Afterparty” is the requisite catalog of debauched late-night misadventures. “The Ol’ Speak Easy” is an ill-fated stab at a smoky barroom ballad with a truly cringe-worthy chorus. Do It For Free is the sound of a band casting a wide net but playing it far too safe. In a quest for mainstream approval, the Constellations far too frequently end up smack-dab in the middle of the road. (2 out of 5 stars)