verticoli - verticoli

Verticoli

Verticoli
self-released; 2013

3.6 out of 5

By Steph Windfeldt

Verticoli sounds like a mild strain of bacteria. I looked it up, and it actually means an old, Italian hairbrush made from whalebone. I think either translation of Verticoli is fitting for this group, whose self-titled EP, Verticoli, was released in November of 2013. Verticoli have perfected their range of deep grooves and diverse jams into an accessible listen on the EP.

The band is made up of three dudes, two of whom are brothers. The three-piece band is completely collaborative in their music-making efforts, and they hoped that the magic of their live performances would translate into a listenable album.
They recorded this album in a room in Sam and James’ parents’ house, pleased with the sound and not needing much modification Phil McPhee of Tiger Choir mastered it.

“Control” is passionate and hard. The drum work is extremely energetic. What makes this tune extra interesting is the playful little guitar work that teases from behind the heavier sounds. “Vivid” is a modern ballad. In this song, we seek to feel something that hasn’t been shown. It feels very personal and vulnerable, and that makes it so beautiful to listen to.

“Insomnia” has gorgeous voice work and splendid guitar riffs. The song is a little dark and a little complicated, but definitely listenable. The architecture for this song is built on a classic model, verses and chorus that roll into the next. However, just shy of three minutes into the song, we take an unexpected turn into a heaven of heavy jamming.

Verticoli does not like to compare themselves to other bands’ sounds, so I will do this for them. To me, they sound like the band of 9th grade boys that covered “When I Come Around” at the West Jr. High talent show in 1998. If you grew up in the 90’s, you will almost surely have a crush on Verticoli.

Go see them live, support their dream, and help good, ole-fashioned rock ‘n roll live another day.

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