Tentacles is the new 5 song EP release from Stick Men. If you are unfamiliar with this trio, you have two King Crimson alumni (Tony Levin, Pat Masteletto) teamed up with guitarist Markus Reuter, and their unique instrumentation creates a massive sound for just 3 musicians. If you are a fan of 80’s King Crimson, I liken Stick Men to that sound and approach. At times I’m left guessing who is playing lead on these tracks, as Levin and Reuter both handle lead and the bottom end throughout the live shows. The title track “Tentacles” kicks off the EP, and they waste no time getting heavy and complex. Heavily distorted guitars and Masteletto’s pounding rhythms propel this track until suddenly you are treated to an ambient atmospheric conclusion. Reuter specializes in touch guitar playing (Warr guitar, Chapman Stick), developed and plays his own unique creations, the U8 and U10 guitars. The music often has a solid foundation, and there are lines upon interweaving lines, as they continue to add layers of sound. “Ringtone” grooves and oozes into your brain, I really enjoy trying to hear all the bits that are happening and follow the patterns. The song has an ominous feel at times, and Reuter’s tone soars at the songs conclusion with his soundscapes in the background. “Company Of Ghosts” slowly builds but shows off the interweaving lines of Levin and Reuter, who I do find quite melodic when you have spent time with the music. The song has a long haunting ending, again applying the soundscapes to create beautiful atmospheres. “Danger In The Workplace” has Reuter and Levin trading off lead lines, heavy distorted guitars and more of Masteletto’s intensity, you can imagine how these songs develop, and offer up a platform for improvisation in the live setting. It is surprising to hear the tones of Reuter which are quite similar to Fripp, and a pleasure to listen and imagine the creativity taking place for these sessions, it feels like they are truly exploring sound, and luckily for us, we get to be a part of that journey.
Track Listing
1) Tentacles
2) Ringtone
3) Company Of Ghosts
4) Danger In The Workplace
5) Saturday Night
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