FROM THE HEIGHTS OF OUR PASTURELAND

1. "Spirit's Heavy, But Not Overthrown" (13:19) a heavier, almost punk version of Post-Rock-infused Krautrock. The instrumental passages are much more interesting than the punk-Krautrock. (26/30)

2. "Eager Glacier" (9:11) built over a pounding Native American-like drum pattern infinity guitars weave their detuned chords over the top, slowly growing in power and volume, as added and increased cymbal play also reflects the growing tension. The coolest parts are the very-seldom key changes from the guitars (always collectively). At the five-minute mark the drums cut out completely, leaving the whining, droning guitars alone for about 40 seconds, then everything comes crashing back in like a modern day MY BLOODY VALENTINE or KITCHENS OF DISTINCTION jam. Guitar chord progressions begin at the seven-minute mark and proceed with more rock-like bass-and-drum pattern. A little like 4 A.D. band DIF JUZ here. Not bad! (17.75/20)

3. "Ponders End" (7:18) JAM-like guitar stroking with DICK DALE-like spy music guitar riffing and marching band-like drum pounding creates this very odd, almost incongruous sound. It's creative but a little drawn out without enough variation and development--even with the scaled-down end of the fourth minute and then switch of guitar-chord progressions thereafter. Another Post Rock (reminding me of two Irish bands: U2 and Post Rockers GOD IS AN ASTRONAUT) shift for the last 90 seconds tries to add some variety. (13/15) 4. "Lost in the Overcast" (3:53) interesting slow-paced interlude of more Native American drumming and slow, spacious guitar strums. Innocuous. (8.75/10)

5. "From the Heights of Our Pastureland" (8:39) 4:20 of thrashing heavy Post Rock guitars takes a turn into MAUDLIN OF THE WELL territory with some suddenly gorgeous and very spacious long-decay guitar chord play, eventually set over Native American-like drum rhythms and slow-pulsing single note on the piano. I really like this part! Not as big of a fan of the guitar thrashing first part. (17.625/20)

Total Time 42:18

I don't remember such a predominance of Native American-like drumming in previous Yoo Doo Right music. It works, kind of, but can be a bit tedious over time.

B-/3.5 stars. Interesting but, ultimately, disappointing--especially because this band popped onto the scene showing so much promise.