The Music Box - I’ve Got A Feeling We’re Not In Kansas Anymore

The Music Box

I’ve Got A Feeling We’re Not In Kansas Anymore
self-released; 2012

3.8 out of 5

By Demeria Harris

Don’t you just love it when music can evoke emotions and take you on a journey – especially when it’s done without the use of lyrics or vocals? Enter I’ve Got A Feeling We’re Not In Kansas Anymore, a four-track EP by Florida band The Music Box. The instrument choice is fairly straightforward, relying mainly on guitars, bass and drums to tell a full-bodied story that promises to take you on quite a ride.

“Depatures” begins with a sprightly guitar riff, and the bass and drums spring up to meet it after just a few notes. The melody evolves carefully from bar to bar, and by the middle of the song the energy has really come to a head. The rapid fire guitar riff makes me wonder if perhaps the strings got set on fire, or if the guitarist even still has fingertips, but it’s an intensely pleasant sound that ebbs and flows softly. 

The deeper tones of “The Drive” give it a very realist touch. It cruises along with a poppy (as in, literally popping) flair that explodes into dirty chords, melting back into a more natural and laid-back sound. With a hint of nature sounds, it’s easy to envision a long road trip through the countryside and the freedom that comes along with it.

I am a total sucker for piano, and “Reflections,” with the soothing piano/violin intro, immediately sent fuzzy whispers down my arms and spine. It transitions into a phrase where the automatic rifle-speed drums really carry the tune, aided by the solid bass and chunky chords in the background. I love the main melody that this song seems to have been built around – it sounds like the kind of melody that someone discovered by chance and thought ‘this is money.’

“Remember Me” starts delightfully slow and heavy, and you can really appreciate how they take their time to give each note the attention and power it deserves. The energy builds without sacrificing any of the heavy sound, a technique that has been exercised quite well throughout the entire EP, and closes out on a duly reminiscent and soothing guitar solo that winds down perfectly. 

The overall sound of this reminded me of the music you hear while on hold with the doctor’s office, because it’s so upbeat and inviting – BUT, it’s far heavier, way more complex, and I would actually love to have this in my steady album rotation. It’s a fresh take on instrumental tunes and really, a well-composed effort all around. I love the unique sound and really look forward to hearing more from The Music Box in the future.

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