Science Penguin - Science Penguin

Science Penguin

Science Penguin
self-released; 2017

​3.5 out of 5

By Dan Weston

Joel Beavin, Matt Yates, and Penny Manousoff are Science Penguin. The recorded a six-song self-titled EP Science Penguin showcasing their sound. Their sound is no frills rock with inventive experimentation. The band sticks to the basics as far as instruments go. I give them points for prog rock style experimentation which is their biggest asset. On that same note their music isn't very emotionally impactful. 

Sometimes emotional impact has a great deal to do with the production. I can’t say there were many favors that the production did for the delivery. It’s above demo quality but things like the vocals sitting on top of the mix and lack of low-end were areas that could use improvement. 

Manousoff has some inspired moments. She stays in key and is a dynamic singer but there are areas with her style that could use some tweaking. Her lyrics veer towards teenage journal entries with superfluous use of the word fuck. Lyrics like “Pick yourself up off the fucking ground” and “I may never meet someone like you again” and many others were so matter of fact lyrics that it felt like she was having a conversation. I would have liked to hear just a little more ambiguity, metaphors and play on words in general. 

As I mentioned previously the music is the strongest aspect at the moment. The drumming on “Cassiopeiae” is manic, sporadic and pretty incredible while there is some sick guitar work on “Iron Valentine.” Overall there is some very inventive music littered throughout the EP.

This music will resonate more with a younger audience. I’ll be honest I’m in my late thirties and I had a hard time relating to anything she was singing about. However, I think people in their late teens and early 20’s will have an easier time connecting. 

​Overall, the band has some talent but there are a lot of areas for improvement as well. This EP builds a foundation and I look forward to their evolution.

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