Idiot Pilot - Wolves

Reprise Records

My issue with most of the music that falls under the "electronica" umbrella is the lifelessness of the musicianship and performances. So when it was announced that Bellingham, WA duo, Idiot Pilot, were employing the talents of Chris Pennie (Coheed & Cambria)and Travis Barker (+44) to fill in on percussion for their next release, I was beyond excited about the possibilities. As it were, I wouldn't be let down. At the core, Idiot Pilot is comprised of the duo Michael Harris and Daniel Anderson but the material here would never lead you to believe that. Wolves is the sound of a band in every sense of the word.

Sure, credit must be given to Ross Robinson and Mark Hoppus, who both produced in separate sessions, but the songwriting and playing here are the real standouts. Even the synthed-out keyboards have an earthy quality about them. That in itself is a feat that shouldn't be ignored. Fans of Muse and the Notwist will love the record's delicate balance of loopy-guitars, prog tempos and melody. I don't like to be proved wrong but sometimes it is truly worth it.

Words by Carlos Ramirez