The Beegles - daytime

The Beegles

Daytime
self-released; 2013

3.9 out of 5

By Ethan Skeleton

Sounds like you just put on a record and a spaced out Fifth Element project started filling the room with the thoughts and words of a simpler time. It has the color and shape of 60’s music, but the direction and lyrics of a forward-thinking modern day poet. The guitars twinkle like Himalayan strings, the drums sit muffled in riot, while the vocals sting through it all. Ash Briody has a lot of talent for playing all the instruments and handling the engineering, but he could have benefited from a little ease of production. At the same time, the sound quality is what really strikes the ears. Daytime is so pure in its tone regardless of polish.

“My Head Exploded” almost describes the way I felt after being immersed into this dreamy from-another-time escapade. The guitar line is wonderful and enchanting. There’s even a bar of 5/4 to bring tension and release to the groove. After a couple of listens to this one you’ll want to get outside and talk to trees or something. It is captivatingly sweet and hauntingly imaginative – my favorite of the collection. 

“Good Apples” feels kind of like a Beastie Boys instrumental, great movement and tempo with stellar bass line. The melody is repetitive but strong, great note choices within a well-matched progression. This could easily pass for a background bumper or showcase party tune. The transient vibes start to sneak their way in on “Daytime.” There’s the slow churn of a dance beat and the ever-cresting sheets of effected vocals to blame. “Happening” is cheery with hopping keys, loose drums, and a peaceful vocal line.

It’s hard to say that The Beegles follow much of any contemporary standards, but it just works that way. Daytime sways from break beat jams to psychedelic romps to trudging blues. It’ll keep you guessing to say the least. If you’re considering seeing what The Beegles are all about live I implore you to follow through. What was once just a man in his bedroom turned into a seven-piece squad of music nerds ready to show you what they’re made of. The group is just really starting to take off so do them a favor and check them out whether it’s physical or digital. Either way you’ll get more than you bargained for.