![]() ![]() There is a contrast, however, with the legato counter melody performed on the tenor horn over the top of the upbeat rhythm. Although this thickens the texture, softens the sounds and gives the song a fuller sound, the muted kick is overpowered by the tinny high hat, taking attention away from the vocals. In this song, a wooden percussive sound is sporadically placed within the beat given by the kick drum and syncopated high hat. A theme throughout the album is the clever use of a variety of instruments rather than just the standard band setup. Midway through the album, the pace is picked up slightly with the song "The Chambers and The Valves." With its solid 4/4 rhythm and major key, it first sounds like it is being played an inexperienced band, but then reaches its depth and the instrumentation and vocal harmonies prove their professionalism. It could be argued that this detracts from the drama and emotion that had just been made. To finish the song, it returns back to the original upbeat rhythm made prominent by the use of the high hat. The rhythm then changes again on the last chorus to sound more dramatic and powerful. This is effective because it adds depth to the song especially because at the middle 8, the tempo slows slightly and the texture thins out to be just the guitar and the vocalist’s pure, rich tones. Also as the song builds up, the drums pan across the speakers to emulate the drummer playing the whole kit. ![]() The contrast in the prominent kick and swell of guitar and violin drones works well because it adds to the texture of the song - it gives the listener more to consider.Īlthough this track is in 4/4, there is effective use of percussion with an offbeat wooden ‘click’ sound during the fast paced verse and instrumental, which could be overlooked by the listener. The odd reverb on the clean toned guitar creates a kind of tremolo while the strings sound smooth and fresh above it. "Shield Your Eyes" is another beautiful song because of the echoic, gothic beginning. When the violin takes over the melody, it sounds beautifully legato and the texture thins out slightly again before the chorus kicks in. Although recorded quite loudly the strings are effective and not too overpowering, giving the song a mellow, folk vibe. Here in the pinnacle of the track, the emotion intensifies with the prominent use of cymbals. When the drums are added everything sounds very silky and angelic which suits the beautiful lyrics, particularly in the chorus. The song isn’t basic and dull it comes alive and tells a story through smooth poetic articulation. The band’s ability to write intricate melodies is highlighted through the gradual layering of such instruments. This, along with use of a glockenspiel gives the song more interest and depth to the texture. "New Ceremony" begins with an electric acoustic guitar before being layered with slightly distorted electric picking which creates the melody. Prior to this an overuse could be suggested, illustrating the band’s possible desire to show their individuality and originality. The album improves with "New Ceremony" with each orchestral instrument contributing purposefully to the sound. The most interesting factor in this song is the unconventional 6/8 time signature which gives a distinctive and unpredictable rhythm. Unlike every other track on the album, there is an impression that the singer does not feel fully engaged. The vocals seem to be placed too far away, preventing the listener from appreciating the rawness of Peter’s voice. The only distortion is presented by the crescendo of the electric guitar being panned to the right. Disappointingly, the chorus sounds too clean. The melody line is again contrasted in the chorus through faint staccato piano chords, deepening the texture alongside the ‘airy’ electric guitar. ![]() As the track continues the timbre of each instrument produce many contradictions, none more so than the underlining raw sound of a distorted guitar alongside a smooth, legato melody line sang chorally in a major key reflecting the band’s predominant folk influence. Despite this, the gritty introduction layered with prominent toms and loud bass accentuated by the amp provide a favourable amount of mid-range, with the movement of strings clearly audible. "Animal Skins," however, is an interesting choice for an opening track, with its lack of direction, and anti climatic and repetitive chorus. Shallow Bed, their debut album released in 2012 is far from disappointing with a distinct depth across the album acquired by the effective layering of instruments. Although they were members of post-punk hard-core bands, their folky gospel sound is refreshing to the ear. In 2009, Dry the River made their name through numerous festival performances and charity gigs. ![]()
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