California’s math rock band Bisonwar is what I want to see more of from this genre, and what it was originally set to do: a focus on instrumental prowesses, all the while borrowing slightly from jazz for its harmony but keeping it all generally easygoing. Well, the band’s debut self-titled full-length does just that, and more! The only thing it lacks is odd measures. While math rock has always been fascinated with guitar, Bisonwar shares the spotlight equally between the guitarist Joe and the bassist Peter. There is an abundance of parallel riffs – where the bass plays the same … Read more
Tag Archives: math rock
Sproingg – Sproingg
Sproingg is a fitting name for such a bouncy and lighthearted avant-prog trio! The band, which takes its roots in Germany, have just released their debut, self-titled album via bandcamp, and it’s one of those that you can’t afford to miss. First of all, one of its springy legs is Johannes, violin and Chapman stick player. The former instrument is uncommon but not rare, but it’s one of unfortunately too few opportunities to catch a band boasting a stick! That, on its own, is a good reason to check out this band, but you’ll stay for their bizarre, oddly rhythmic … Read more
Candy – Candy Meatworks
Candy is a one-man project from Czechia, and they’ve just released Candy Meatworks, which appears to be their third opus. The project is one of bass guitar-centric experimental rock. The Czech lyrics are sung in an eccentric fashion, not unlike many other avant-garde bands like Mr. Bungle, to name but one, and the rhythm beneath them is heavily driven by the bass guitar. That makes their sound very funky and almost dancey. As mentioned in their bandcamp description, there’s a special place for dissonance, which emphasize the unique character of the project. The programmed drums are, for the most … Read more
Kaguu – Hawkridge
Kaguu is a new three-piece progressive rock band from Mexico. Their debut EP, Hawkridge draws heavy influences from math rock and video game soundtracks as well, which explain for the most part the dreamy vibe you find yourself in when listening to it. The five-tracker, despite being deceptively short, is a joy to hear. The riffs are soothing, melodic, contemplative and memorable. Each instrument breathes, and sounds bright and clear, which makes the compositions even more enjoyable. Overall, it’s a really good little debut from Mexico’s latest band.
Blumen – Mångata
‘Mångata’ is one of those words that can’t be directly translated. Although one could argue that no word can be translated exactly, because the two words will carry different insinuations and complex networks with a plethora of emotions, meanings, and other words. However, Wiktionary describes this swedicism as ‘the roadlike reflection of moonlight on water’, which is better conveyed by the EP’s artwork than any description. From foreign languages to the musical one, the issue remains. It’s incredibly difficult to put music into words because each chord, each progression, each rhythm, timbre, pitch, length has an unfathomable amount of cultural … Read more