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CD: BTV037
RELEASED: 2001
LABEL: Burnt Toast
01. Goldenwest |
The songs on Goldenwest are intricate compositions with
ghostly
melodies
and
pulsing,
moody
jams. These
are well
thought out rhythm
and guitar
based
songs that come out full, filling the room with a washed and airy grace. The
electronics nestle into the mix perfectly, the band masterfully avoiding any
hint of overindulgence.It's really difficult
to really describe the sound of Ester Drang as they hit a balance between accessibility
and artistry that is so rare. Imagine
Pink Floyd, Sigur Ros, Mogway, Radiohead and Echo and the Bunnymen collaborating
on a soundtrack to a movie set in 1985 and you'll be in the
neighborhood. Though severely atmospheric, at times even bordering on psychedelic,
the songs
are anchored by melodic vocals that recall the Brit-pop style of The Ocean
Blue or even Coldplay. Though at times the sound may dive into a stew of guitar
distortion and chaos, the thread
remains connected and eventually the melody returns, even stronger than it
had been. Things change
fairly quickly, and quiet percussion and breathy vocals are added to the mix
to give it a heady, swirling feel that it never really comes down from. In
fact, Goldenwest draws much of it's power from a subtle layering of rather
gentle sounds. The opening, album-titled track "Golden West" shimmers
along with several layers of twinkling keyboards and some subtle drumming,
while "How Good Is Good Enough" creates some nice guitar white noise
for a backdrop. The band proves they
can pack a delightful amount of sounds into a pop-length track as well. "Song
For Jonathon" still contains plenty of gurgling keyboards, and breathy
vocals, but things
develop at a more interesting pace in the shorter length and the track stands
out because of it. An excellent atmospheric pop album, and another group
to look out for in the future.
Influences / Similar Artists:
The Serenes, Pink Floyd, Sigur Ros, Mogway, Radiohead, Echo and the Bunnymen