Tribal Disco Noise have had a somewhat tumultuous career with a small hiatus taking place recently, but now the band has quietly returned with a disc that features different versions of some previously released tracks as well as songs not found on their debut "Orange Sunshine". This E.P. showcases the groups astute song writing skills with moderate tempo tracks and shimmering emotion. Steadfast incorporation of the keyboard as more of an instrument than ambiance is one thing that definitely gives this band an edge, plus not to mention their slick production and song writing skills. Not comparable to any other band really, they break some ground and coast smoothly through enjoyable tracks which although aren't bone splinteringly heavy, can incite a vast array of emotions. Vocals courtesy of Andy are extremely impressive, his shy demeanor can saturate the lyrics which without warning, can break off into molten screams or wallow through moaning verses and choruses that sound so pure that it feels as though he's almost singing on a tidal wave of pure grief of being spurned by someone held dear. The way his expression of emotions pour out so vividly it would seem like they have him entranced in a state of volatile despair. Guitars courtesy of Keir who also plays in local favorites Insolence are more experimental than his playing in the latter group, he brings forth more song structure oriented playing featuring alot more silent pauses and mellow strums giving a very drowsy resonance that tends to kick in like a burst of adrenaline throughout verses and other more explosive parts of the music. Steadily progressive with changing parts that fit nicely together and some fresh sounding lightly distorted riffs, the sounds put forward fit well with the overall slightly somber tone of the album. Bass throughout the album is very thick and headstrong, indeed its a more prevalent element in the groups music, intertwining tightly with the keyboards providing a dense groove with licks that switch up well yet stay closely parallel to the music strengthening the low end immensely. Drums are quite ambitious with all parts of the kit being put to use they are played in a very tactful manner that can stem outwards into tribal styled percussion which is not unexpected given the bands name, but for the most part keeps the backbone of the rhythm firm with robust precisely calculated snare hits. A defining factor that sets Tribal Disco Noise apart is Joel's keyboard playing, relying on a more straight ahead instrument direction that borrows somewhat from 80's europop yet is fused with a very polished experimental playing style that instead of veering off into ambiance, sounds like an other worldly electronic device being played like a stringed instrument. The bands attention to song structure and glossy overtones highlight the release providing a brief jaunt into unconquered new worlds of auditory delight. Stand out tracks on the release include "Sucking On" which gives insight to a more angry side of the band, while tracks like "White Swallow" gleam with passion and keyboard laced musical electricity. The bands music is extremely rhythmic in nature and borrows a bit from 80's pop and disco, yet blends the two elements together with a slight rapcore overtone making the influences almost indistinguishable. Not so much a funky or quirky band, instead the songs take form with a very solemn yet heavy style. The way the songs hit the listener aren't easily described but once trapped in their refined layers and shifting emotion it's hard not to get tangled in their moody grooves. Perhaps the only downfall to the CD is the gloomy nature which flows throughout it, the songs don't exactly kick into the high gear of most bands out there and for the most part trek forward at a calmed pace. Not a completely negative point about the music as it comes nowhere near the slow progression of say goth music or the like it still does cause the CD to drone on a few parts. Another slight con that could be noted is although there is variation between the different version of songs there still isn't alot of tracks included on the EP. Tribal Disco Noise are group who ever so gently, are coming into a distinct style and sound all their own. Groups with such raw yet purified intensity and refracting sonic capabilities are almost always misunderstood or overlooked, although this fate too may capture this excellent release, those who have experienced it will enjoy it for some time to come, as TDN has somehow intelligently made mellow heavy.
(4.5 / 5)