DEADEN THE FIELDS

'Deaden The Fields' is their first full album, recorded during the early three months of 2011. A wonderful piece of work, let me tell you. Overall an one hour lasting post rock symphony I would say so, yeah .. don't know if this expression ever has been used to describe music ... nor exactly matches. Never mind, I'm still in favour. The arrangements are complex, challenging - Ron Pollard's (sparkling) piano submits a classical touch all over. Guitarist Andrew McDonald varies a lot, reminiscent to the band Grails - from accentuated accompaniment to strong riffs and soaring sound walls, as well as diverse fusion-esque moments reminding me of Terje Rypdal for example. Ambitious, while also including samples and diverse electronica gimmicks - this altogether sounds so mature, rounded - cool!

I would say the epic Landmark hereby arranges the centerpiece - endurance is required - while starting with something like a cacophony this is courageous, well it's the risk of confrontating the listener with a 'problem' right from the start ... followed by lovely charming piano passages though, kicking you into a another (jazzy) direction soon. All in all this song is an awesome rollercoaster trip which you won't forget so fast, impossible to describe in its entirety. If someone misses a stronger guitar presence at some point Deep Rivers Run Quiet then makes it, provided with a notable spacey touch.

More cinematic/ambient impressions are coming up during the closing epic They Found My Skull In The Nest Of A Bird - dramatic - with Ben Stacy they have a playful drummer aboard for sure. All in all the songs combine a special alliance of melody and eclecticism - once jumping on the bandwagon this album is definitely captivating. I find 'Deaden The Fields' a very entertaining opus which certainly deserves a place on my best-of list for 2011. I recommend to reserve enough time to assimilate this in one go as a unity. A great, partially puzzling experience - 4.5 stars for now, as it surely needs some time to prove a potential masterpiece assignment.