Bow Arrow - Aleph Null

Bow Arrow

Aleph Null
self-released; 2013

3.9 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

Matt Scheurich aka Bow Arrow is a talented artist who writes electronic, down tempo pop you might be inclined to find on a label like Italians Do It Better. Scheurich’s music fits alongside bands like The Chromatics or Glass Candy.  His voice often sounds like a mixture between Ian Curtis and John Maus but his voice has been heavily treated with effects. Scheurich first release was back in 2011 and called Σ Of An Aftermath. That album was about a terrifying experience he had in the Papua New Guinea jungle where he got shot with arrows and one of the local tribesman tried to rape his girlfriend. He wrote the album to help with his mental state and I would recommend you take a listen to that as well. His new album Aleph Null is a bit derivative of Σ Of An Aftermath. Scheurich explains “This one is not an entirely similar release, but I feel it definitely is from the same origins, however with a different perspective.” With Aleph Null you have a nice variety of mood, tone and atmosphere sometimes all at the very same time.

Take for instance the dichotomy of “23,” which is one of the album’s highlights. The programming here is top notch as he implements a subdued beat, distorted sub bass and a number of elements. What stood out for me was the complexity of the percussion, which creates a whirl of energy that juxtaposes the stoic, almost monotonous vocals. It creates a tantalizing effect that draws you into the song.

The first song is called “Glass,” which is one of the best songs on the album. Combining crystal-like synths, with lead square bass parts and heavy electronic kits, it delivers some infectious sounds. Scheurich’s vocals sound great as they’re delivered in just above a whisper during the verse and get just the right amount of gusto during the chorus. The vocals lay low in the mix but worked perfectly fine for the type of music he is making.

“Farewell” utilizes dark synth tones and arpeggiated synths to create a nice canvas for Scheurich to sing over while “Outside Inside” provides an ample amount of melancholy for the listener to indulge in.  Another highlight is “Minor Victories,” which continues in the vein of some of the previous songs. He closes with the sparse, kind of spooky “Minds Eye.” Scheurich’s vocals start to sound a bit like Scott Walker at times. It was an interesting choice for a closer.

Top to bottom this album is good listen. The production is on point as Scheurich submerges you in nine songs of down beat electro pop that hit the mark.

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