COYOTE

While maudlin of the Well's Part the Second was instantly accessible despite incredible creativity and intricate arrangements, I have experienced this album multiple times since I purchased it, and even now, am not quite sure what to make of it, and, while I do not know Toby Driver, my gut tells me he wouldn't have it any other way. Let me describe the experience: It's like having a dream- not quite a nightmare, but not particularly pleasant either- then waking up and not being able to remember much of it. Kayo Dot's Coyote is a hazy, murky affair. The varied instruments paint only a desolate picture. Though I feel this album is less engaging than previous works from either Kayo Dot or maudlin of the Well, it does not fail to impress me in terms of its arrangement or general moodiness.

"Calonyction Girl" Animalistic wailings of violin and brass undulate over a lazy bass. A lonely vocalist keens as though mourning the destruction of an already desolated steppe. The hypnotic repetitiveness during the second half is nearly trance-inducing. It is the best of the five compositions.

"Whisper Ineffable" Initially similar to the opener, the second piece is even lonelier and full of more despair. The song ceases to drag after the three minute mark, as pummeled drums and eerie vocals drag the listener into a spiral of confusing dissonance. Perhaps the harsh discord remains too long, but eventually the sleepy music from before returns, perforated with bass harmonics.

"Abyss Hinge 1: Sleeping Birds Sighing in Roscolux" A grittier piece of music, the third track juxtaposes high-pitched electric guitar runs with fuzzy, muffled snarls.

"Abyss Hinge 2: The Shrinking Armature" The lengthiest part of the album relies more on brass and unsettling compound rhythms, pairing lingering notes with brief explosions of bass and drums, and employing a very good electric guitar motif. Unfortunately, the piece loses my attention after a while.

"Cartogram out of Phase" In a way, the closing song reminds me of lounge band that has been sneaking nips of cheap liquor from the insides of their coats- everything drags along in a languid manner, yet still retains some old-fashioned classiness.