AnimalJam (2018)

Post hardcore blended with the heart of pop-punk and prog rock sensibilities is where Texas based AnimalJAm’s debut release can be found lurking.

I understand there is a bit of this type of music going on these days (in the vein of Dance Gavin Dance, Hail The Sun ect) but where these groups opt often for technicality and raw power, AnimalJam keep things memorable with excellent guitar interplay and a varied vocal approach that goes down smooth.

It’s a perfectly concise release that doesn’t over stay its welcome at 5 tracks. I have to say as well this is pretty well produced and highlights some of the more anthemic moments.

Second Greatest Dad Ever - Joy Ride (2013)

It's one thing to have two guitar players in your band and something else entirely to have two guitarists in your band that can play off one another while consistently tearing into awesome riffs. Math rock to be sure, but with that yearning quality that indie emo brings to the table (the vocals contribute greatly to that feeling). Like I'm always looking for, this has the mark of a band having lots of fun with their own material. Nice to see the Lone Star state being repped, as I don't really see too much like this from that southern realm. Excited to hear what a full length could bring from this four piece.

Hikes - Friends (2013)

Last time on the Swords....

My last words were based on my reaction to their song "Shepherds Clock" which I had some pretty strong feelings about :) Now we are have a full length to fully grasp what this Texas group is laying down.

What I enjoy about these guys (and gal) is that there is an incredibly honest mashing of folk/folk rock and math. To my own bias however I feel they do their best work when the math is out in force....and unfortunately thats not very often. But the great news is without the overt tapping and awesome drums this functions as a gorgeous folk rock record. The low points though are realistically minor because this is a very enjoyable first outing for these guys. "Trophy Lives" is another incredibly well balanced track just like the aforementioned song. Its incredibly admirable to see a band doing something left of center and succeeding at a high level.  Everyone is going to really take a liking to this and its a damn crime that more people aren't trumpeting their praises.

SO GOOD!

ps its free guys so really there's no excuses ;)

Friends

We Scare Coyotes - PF Flyers (DEMO)

They must know my math rock weakness!? 

Strings in math 

its all over.

ok ok ok 

Think a little old school mercury program with violin. But yes incredibly well structured post rock by way of mathy goodness. We Scare Coyotes are a five piece by way of Texas. What I am impressed the most with though is that we have:

1. A Demo

and 

2. A LIVE Demo

and its just so good. Thankfully the violin isn't content to just sit back and solo but takes various rolls throughout a song. 

Enough talking and reading. Go listen. 

http://wescarecoyotes.bandcamp.com/

Dear Human

If you missed them the first go around then heres your chance to look into Texas based Dear Human. Yes sadly they called it quits last year but that should not deter you from enjoying this grand bit of time bending.

Yes they've got your dual guitar attack with a fair bit of original riffage to keep the kids interested but what ends up hitting you in the jaw right away into the fight are the drums. Specifically the double bass. It can be a fickle mistress and if used improperly (or too excessively) can turn your once great band into a sloppy cram jam of blast beats. Kit man Casey Nalley reigns it in when need and keeps it generally speaking tasteful but no less impressive. This is something that everyone should be on board for.

bandcamp