The Amber herd - our only eden

The Amber Herd

Out Only Eden
self-released; 2014

3.7 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

These beeps are engaging on The Amber Herd’s first track on their album Our Only Eden. I can only hope they stand for some abstract rhythm that will come into focus as soon as the bass or drums hit. These are my initial thoughts as “Three Ring Circus” enters my head. The Amber Herd isn’t into my touch and go desires, however, because this track is something different entirely. Acoustic and jangle electric are taking full force on the wings of some delicate wind chimes. The ride cymbal tips along, holding the smooth waves of sunset alternative for ransom. The price only being that it holds off to really shine until at least mid way in. 

The opener is over seven minutes long and we have attention to hold, ladies and gentlemen. I get the feeling this is no jam band so I’m in it for the expansive, gorgeous progressions and ambient calm. The guitar takes its time with solo work, letting the melodic lines ebb and flow. The organ and strings came together in beautiful fashion atop the curtains of sound that sway one way toward Pink Floyd and the other toward The Allman Brothers. It’s a one of a kind palette that makes these guys quite special.

“Kite” is also a vast canvas of rock in its more gentle and epic form. The piano punctuates each chord and line with soft elegance. I can’t help but hear Bono in the vocals and it’s truly remarkable. He is hard to reproduce even intentionally. The sensitive flanger effect before the second verse is a nice touch to give a certain element of suspense as the music moves steadfastly confident. Things fall away once more briefly and then the instrumental takes hold and all is forgotten. The familiar waves are back and the tide is high.  

The Amber Herd is at their best when time is of no concern. Their longer cuts are easily the deepest and don’t ask much from the listener. This is music I can see generations of people enjoying. I could play this for my dad and we would vibe all day. There aren’t many artists I can say that about. So cheers to Our Only Eden for weaving great songs with pure musical integrity. The two songs I delved into are very important, but just a part of the whole experience. You know what to do.

Become A Fan

Tweet