Posted on by christinemlodzik

Review by Christine Mlodzik

Not that long ago, Beasthead sent in a video to Rift; it was of them playing at a house party. I’d never heard of Beasthead, but I really liked what I heard. Then they sent us a link to their newest EP, “Tallest Trees.” And I won’t lie, I was somewhat at a loss on how to describe them (this is my second pass at writing this review).

It’s too easy to describe Beasthead’s sound as ambient, although that’s one component – “Tallest Trees” is more of a continually evolving soundscape. Their music’s effect is like taking in visual art; much like looking at a fine painting, their music doesn’t require constant involvement on the listener’s part, he/she can hang in the background and simply add to the atmosphere, but this particular atmosphere is rife with sonic richness.

There’s a silky texture to the vocals and instruments as they thread around each other and finally intertwine. While at times it sounds a little disintegrated, more listens reveal simple, delicate loops that give way to fainter and shadowy works.

Beasthead is comprised of Harry Reynolds (vocals, guitar), Doug Deitchler (guitar, synth, percussion), Nick Whebbe (guitar) and Paul Novak (bass).

There are five tracks on this EP and “Numbers” and “Louder” were my favorites. Local rapper Dem Atlas is a guest vocalist on “Different Son.”

As much as I really like “Tallest Trees,” there’s just one thing I didn’t like: I am not a fan of autotuning vocals. At the beginning of “Numbers” you’ll hear Reynolds’ voice and in my opinion, it doesn’t need any affecting. Like I said, it’s just my opinion.

I recommend you buy “Tallest Trees,” listen, experience and repeat.

The EP is available online; hard copies of “Tallest Trees” will be available for free at Beasthead’s live shows.

https://www.facebook.com/beastheadband

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Filed under: Music Review | Tagged: Alternative, Ambient, Avant Garde, Beasthead, Classical, Electronic, Experimental, Hip-Hop, Indie, Minneapolis, Pop/Rock, Tallest Trees |