Introverted Ester Drang from Oklahoma, shares the same license plates as The Flaming Lips but has a unique dream/ orchestral rock pop sound of their own, or do they? The five piece band released their sophomore effort on Jade Tree entitled 'Infinite Keys,' with layers upon layers of atmospheric paint. Ester (if I may call them by there first name?) paint amongst a lush organic canvas, of complex arrangements that shimmer and shake, with twinkling keys, gentle guitars, powerful drums and beautiful vocals while remaining crystal clear. The nine track disc was recorded by Matt Pence and mixed by Chris Colbert (Neutral Milk Hotel/ Elf Power.)
My favorite and the opening track 'Temple Mount' begins with a lurking guitar intro, delicate bass lush key and strings, and intricate drumming which explodes into a heavy storm of sound. Vocalist Bryce Chambers rides deep in the mix with his incoherent moans poking through here and there, above at the peaks and valleys.
'One Hundred Times' and 'The Greatest Thing” are beautiful songs which borrow the 'OK Computer,' sound. Arranged with appegiated guitars, weary vocals, that glide into the horizons, leaving room for the band to expand their own sound.
'Infinite Keys' departs the stereo with 'I Don't Want To Live (In A World Of Infinite Keys)' with cascading piano melodies and solid drumbeat and tinkering chimes. 7Pj Fans of Cold Play, Radiohead, Pale Saints, Mogwai (Lite) should snoop out this disc to add to their collection of dream pop/orchestral rock. |