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The Monorail
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A Whole New City [EP]
Milquetoast Records
Release: 10/12/2004
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Rated:
Review by:
Jason Warner
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A Whole New City is the new EP from Washington DC band, The Monorail. This EP contains six songs from the band, and it covers a lot of ground stylistically. I am reminded of some sort of cross between Sharks Keep Moving, Hum, and Rites of Spring. They don't sound necessarily like any of these bands, as their sound is wholly original, but there are similarities. While The Monorail fits safely into the vast genre that is post-rock, there are some strong jazz elements present as well. In fact, more than one track contains elements of what could easily play on smooth jazz radio, or in a particularly speedy elevator.
The opening track, "Busy Mess Stress Test," is the best, catchy and progressive - from total clean meandering to all out high gain riffing, reminiscent of Hum. The singing on A Whole New City reminds me of some 80's new wave bands, but I can't really put my finger on which ones. There are tasteful harmonies throughout the EP, which for once add to the music. The dynamics of A Whole New City are pleasing as well. The Monorail has a firm grip on the loud/soft thing, and a good idea of how to put textures to work for them.
Overall, A Whole New City is a good listen. The Monorail is an interesting band worthy of a closer listen. They have a full-length album coming out on Milquetoast Records in Spring 2005, so stay tuned for more. |
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