Positive things need to try harder, at least in my book. Being upbeat, optimistic, clean, sweet and other such adjectives is something that it’s own reward. Thus, to prove to me that you’re not just indulging yourself and that there’s something more to your lighthearted creation, extra miles need to be walked in the realms of creativity and expertise. Sloth & Turtle are a fine example of how to do that; they don’t let their bright brand of of mathrock suffice itself with just happy riffs and short jaunts into the realm of guitar centered music. Instead, they’ve crafted a fully realized and wholly interested self-titled EP, playing very cleverly into the strength of their style. Head on below for a taste!
From the subdued drums which open it, through the incredible bass riffs that carries the track foward, and all the way up to the interesting directions in which the guitar leads go, “A Song for Ants” is a great place to start with this EP. It has that certain happy-go-lucky which infects the rest of the album but also the downright solid composition which keeps us coming back for more. That’s the issue with lots of mathrock releases; they’re pretty enough but often don’t go anywhere, leading to a few cool spins and then abandonment. Not here though; I’ve spent multiple listens on “A Song for Ants” alone, listening for the pleasing and intricate way in which the track comes together. Something about how the band works together is just so organic and effortless while still hiding volumes of interesting interactions.
As far as tone goes, The Samuel Jackson Five are probably the best comparison here although many, many more exist. But if you’ve been following my writing, you know that me comparing any band to SJ5 is about the highest praise I can give and you should be rushing to listen to this album right now. It holds plenty more for you to sink your teeth into, representing one of the finest and well composed mathrock albums I’ve heard in a while. Give it a spin; maybe spring will follow for those of you freezing in the somewhat still chill north? The sun is shining here and I’m going to be playing this album as the wind runs through what’s left of my hair. See you outside.