The Midwest quintet, A Few Blink Mice, describe their debut album Rational Creatures, as a “creative expressive piece that deals with personal insecurities that we all face at some point in our lives.” Their sound is similar to Black Keys, The Eagles, Old Crow Medicine Show, Edward Sharpe and Blues Pills. Quite a diverse lineup of influences I’d say. The band is fronted by a talented duo - singer Emily Mae Webb and guitarist Ty Bailey. The group’s overall style and sound mix elements of jazz, blues and rock.
“They Came with Swords” has a live sound, well balanced and in a genre that’s more folksy indie rock. “Hell Hath No Wrath” offers scathing guitar licks and a bouncy, acoustic rhythm. The chorus gets wilder, especially on the crash cymbals. The tempo/chord changes were nice, too. “Running from Myself” features a sweet, mellow rhythm very much in line with Old Crow Medicine Show. The string action (violin and/or bass fiddle) was great to hear as well. “Seven Deadly Sins” starts off with a catchy guitar riff and a danceable, shuffling beat. This one has an edgier, bluesy feel to it. “Take me Down” is one of the slower tracks on the album, featuring a waltz-like beat. The mood of Bailey’s guitar and Webb’s voice is somber and soulful. There is desperation, but also slivers of hope in the lyrics and Webb’s voice delivers those words well. “The Giant Song” begins with a jangly guitar, full rhythm section and violin action. It ends with the drums dropping out and a short violin/guitar interlude. The feeling and energy behind “Black Hearted Man” reflects its moody, dark title. The song’s style is more in the vein of Black Keys somewhat, but really, it reminded me more of something from the ‘70s. Like, sleazy back roads southern rock. “Endless Walls” ends the album with a bouncing beat and a pretty catchy guitar riff. By far, it was the shortest number on the entire album. All in all, Rational Creatures was a pretty good album. The standouts were “Black Hearted Man” and “Running from Myself.” I failed to hear any jazz influence – I heard more folk/blues rock/indie rock – but in the end, I will leave that up to other listeners to decide.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Critique/insightWe are dedicated to informing the public about the different types of independent music that is available for your listening pleasure as well as giving the artist a professional critique from a seasoned music geek. We critique a wide variety of niche genres like experimental, IDM, electronic, ambient, shoegaze and much more.
Are you one of our faithful visitors who enjoys our website? Like us on Facebook
Archives
May 2024
|