Shark
and Bear
"By Sea, By Air, By Land" CDEP
Losing
Blueprint Records / Agitpop!
Records
Genres: math-rock, indie rock
Losing Blueprint
94 Prince St., #3
Boston, MA 02113
Aug 7 - 13 2004 |
Complex math rock has become Losing Blueprint's main focus as of late,
and Shark and Bear is one of the few bands on their roster that
I haven't already heard. However, listening to this three-song
EP, I hardly find myself on unfamiliar terrain. These tracks are
based on high-energy, angular guitars and complicated rhythms, as well
as young, sung/yelled vocals. The chaotic complexity of the disc
proves to be this EP's strongest asset, although it could also
alienate uninitiated listeners.
"Sunday Crossword," a vigorous rock number, starts this
disc off in an interesting though somewhat inaccessible vein.
The vocals especially take some time adjusting to.
"Flammable, Ignored," which follows, is a bit more catchy -
at times it sounds like a more experimental and amateurish Dismemberment
Plan track, oddly enough. Its calmer approach is also quite
successful, with some of the strongest hooks coming from the song's
instrumental parts. "A Good Clockpunching," the EP's
finale, takes an approach similar to that of the first song, including
lyrics about the monotony of office life - suggesting a commentary on
routine and society's obsession with impersonal efficiency.
Shark and Bear is an intelligent band that prides itself on
quality songwriting and intellectual lyrics. By Sea, By Air,
By Land is worth a shot, but only if you're into the new math-rock
scene.
82%
Matt Shimmer [Vitals:
3 tracks, distributed by the
label, released 2004] |