DC Sound Collective: Following the Noise (EP)

American multi-instrumentalist Daniel Crommie has been a busy guy. Having just released his latest solo album Earthbound Facing Skyward he is already back with DC Sound Collective and a new EP titled Following the Noise. Crommie (vocals, flutes, keys, electric dulcimer) and Eldon Hardenbrook (bass, keys, guitars) are this time joined by Bruce Hazen (electric guitar), Colin Henson (electric guitar) and Leslie Gray (violin and viola).

This time around the band goes for a more song oriented approach, instead of a collage of ambient instrumental passages. The first rack "Dante" begins with swirling keyboards soon joined by flute and guitar adding textural and more melodic components. Crommie's voice will not appeal to everyone as he has a somewhat monotone delivery and it does take some getting used to. "Candidate" is more electronic with an Eastern influence. Again, this one is fairly catchy in an off-handed way. "Let's Play Army" is much more mellow with gentle instrumentation and a more dream-like quality. The album ends with "Rowena", the longest track at over nine minutes. The piece begins with ambient keys and gentle acoustics which continue for about six minutes after which moody electric guitar takes the song home.

Following the Noise should satisfy Crommie's existing fan base. It's a pleasant listen with some nice melodies and more tighter song structures compared to his more ambient solo recordings.

Track Listing:
1. Dante (3:18)
2. Candidate (4:04)
3. Let's Play Army (6:17)
4. Ghostwriter (4:39)
5. Rowena (9:14)

Added: January 4th 2017
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 1560
Language: english

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