Zoos of Berlin - Below The Old House [EP]

November 14, 2008, 07:48 AM

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It is a great feeling when a record comes through the door that you actually really like and considering the last few records I’ve reviewed, the Zoos of Berlin demo has come as a much needed relief. With a sound that conjures visual imagery of a theatrical prog adventure through hazy landscapes that one cannot help becoming lost in. In short, this would be a magical band for a festival, late afternoon spot, as the sun is setting over the grounds.

Opening with an ambient build up intermixed with punchy guitar chops you can feel this Detroit based quintet setting the foundations for an extravaganza of audio delights. And you are not disappointed. As ‘Below the Old house’ kicks in you are embraced by the counterpoint between the guitars, bass and synth which weave a rich polyphonic sound, allowing the song to bounce from section to section with a natural flow. This respectful relationship between the swirling melodic textures gives plenty of space and dynamic to give rise to the vocal phrases.

The second track ‘Speak Well of Mandalay’ opens with a quasi Mars Volta style vibe then, as a listener, you get hit by a wall of sound which, accompanied with the distinct vocals lends itself to comparison with Coldplay. But they don’t leave you there and not too far later into the track, the music descends into a contemporary Bowie section. But don’t think their music is disjointed and without maintaining their own sound. Far from it. It’s cleverly written and carefully arranged so that the music has a natural pulse with pure movement and intertwining harmonic channels passing over the interesting chordal changes.

You can hear the influences, make the band comparisons, but Zoos of Berlin are truly onto a new sound here. Thinking of the record as a whole it is an experience, although short lived (only 3 tracks, which is disappointing as I genuinely want it to keep going), that takes you through a whole host of emotional stimulations and musical creativity. Spot on.

http://www.myspace.com/zoosofberlin

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