Kent/Brighton trio Coldbones’ debut release ‘Distance’ brings about a pleasant assembly of post rock, released by the aptly titled Dream Atlantic Records.
‘The Hand Between Us’ starts off the EP with a dreamy riff, rapidly accompanied by an echo of drums that weave quickly between the other cluster of sounds. The steady tempo and metronome like beat explodes into something anthem like just over half way through. Though this alliance of noise could easily falter and prove messy, Coldbones manage to maintain structure and order ironically even during their more chaotic parts.
‘Maeve’ and ‘Summit’ are both tracks that have post-grunge like intros with thugging and murmuring basslines that reflect throughout the record. ‘Maeve’ finds melody eventually, and features the best composition of the whole EP. A section that pulls at your heart strings; the quiet whirring of the guitars is achy, accompanied by the drums, which sort of cry out to you for redemption. The song however does return to its former self, showing how the track acts like a bottle full of emotion that’s been waiting to burst.
‘Far From Living’ though, being the last on the EP, is the most exciting track. Continuing on with the fact this is the last track on the EP, its feedback dosed intro is far more edgier than its predecessors, showing how the band still manage to throw expectations even during the last few minutes of their release. This is the track that without a doubt showcases the band’s utmost talent and ability; it explores a more varied interpretation of post-rock compared to the other tracks and in this way make it more approachable. While the majority of tracks on the record are tinged with indie (‘Summit’) and psychedelic (the offbeat ‘Space’) influences, ‘Far From Living’ explores a more upbeat and ‘fun’ alternative rock aspect; with the guitar being noticeably dominant, allowing the listener to hear new and additional sides to the band’s creativity.
‘Distance’ is a creative and satisfying debut. With tribal and rain mimicking drums, and riffs that howl one minute and mutter the next; it is both the storm and the calm that comes before it.
JASLEEN DHINDSA