The Barrens
Country of origin:
U.S.
Type of music generally:
Psychedelic rock
Status:
Most recent release, The Barrens 2003-2013 (compilation, 2018)
See also:
The Barrens' Bandcamp page
Comparisons:
Flaming Lips, Mercury Rev, Pixies, My Bloody Valentine
Covers/own material:
Own
General comments:
See comments below.
Recommended first album:
The Barrens is the first we've heard
Recordings:
- Worming (EP, 2008)
- Scoliosis (single, 2009)
- The Barrens (2011)
- The Barrens 2003-2013 (compilation, 2018)
The Barrens
Release info:
2011
Availability:
Digital and vinyl only; see The Barrens' Bandcamp page
Ecto priority:
Recommended
Group members:
Debbie Chou—vocals, keyboards, bass, percussion
Mike Koene—lead guitars, vocals, percussion
Colin Fitz—vocals, guitars, piano, bass, percussion
Chris Gersbeck—drums, guitars, bass, vocals
Guest artists:
Nick Tardi—bass (2, 7)
Max Bunion—additional percussion (6)
Comments:
The Barrens make psychedelic pop that recalls the Flaming Lips and Mercury Rev on this album. They do the quiet/loud/quiet thing that the Pixies mastered so well.
It's always melodious, and has some neat vocals. Opener "Claw Remains" allows some dreamy and heavy passages without losing focus once. It's a great track.
"In and of Ice" is dreamy too, and Debbie Chou's vocals are angelic and lovely. ItŐs a fascinating song, allowing so many impulses through.
"Out of the Rain" recalls My Bloody Valentine gone more pop, a cascade of strong guitars spiraling into the ether.
It's a fine record. (stjarnell@yahoo.com)
Thanks to Anna Maria Stjärnell for work on this entry.
