The Quarter After’s key players have fluctuated since the group first coalesced eight years ago, but their second album, released this past March, includes contributions from the current as well as all previous members. Changes Near is a seemly follow-up to their debut album of 2005. The twelve tracks are equally rife with psychedelic rock interlaced with classic soothing melodies, vocal harmonies and just enough euphoric shape-shifting and unexpected turns to keep the listener alert and involved throughout.
“Sanctuary” kicks off the album with swift and flowing full harmonies that can be easily identified as descendants of Rubber Soul/Revolver-era Beatles’ sound. However the song develops beyond these familiar intonations about halfway trough the track as a stirring instrumental interlude provides a surreal escape, guided by chilling electric guitar slides and some light Indian percussion.
“She Revolves” is another sweeping experience and includes a guitar solo that, while fleeting, assures listeners of the serious rock and roll vibe that is sizzling just beneath The Quarter After’s mellisonant surface. Both electric and acoustic guitar shine in “Counting The Score” as the instruments successfully play off each other in satisfying concordance with the country rhythm that carries this song. “See How Good It Feels” is the aptly titled feel-good song of the album with chorus lyrics “Follow me down wandering roads as we watch our thoughts unfold / Open up your world and share / Let the wind blow through your hair / See how good it feels to breathe and to receive love.” Fitting layered vocals draw out the word “love” to complete the resonant message.
In adhering to the Beatles theme, “Day Rider” would be the The Quarter After’s homage to the Beatles’ Help! album, but the next track borrows a few pointers from the Pink Floyd archives. “Nothing Out Of Something,” led by Dominic Campanella’s lyrics and solidly assembled instrumental backing is laced with enrapturing high pitched back-up vocals and Floydian “oohs” and “aahs.”
The title track, “Changes Near,” craftily weaves together different tempos, alternating between a determined upbeat electric guitar and low-key drifting interim. The song closes with an unexpected explosion of a guitar solo which can be likened to some awesome Built To Spill jams.
“Winter Song” stands apart from the other pieces in this album as its mood is decidedly slower and more thoughtful. It commences with a light maraca, tablas drumming and delicate acoustic guitar, begetting an Eastern atmosphere that is joined by soft and beautiful vocals. The next three tracks, “Turning Away,” “This Is How I Want To Know You,” and “Follow Your Own Way” have consistently well-composed, catchy tunes and “Sempre Avanti (Johnny Marr Is Not Dead)” picks it up country-style again for an invigorating close to the album.
The Quarter After is a talented group and their understanding of a full range of rock niches is evident as they incorporate them skillfully into their rippling waves of song. If you’re looking for a transport into the musical arms of the self-proclaimed bringers of “psychedelic folk for the 21st century,” be sure to catch The Quarter After’s show this Wednesday night, June 4th at The Standard Hotel in Los Angeles.
Subscribe to our RSS Feed And checkout our coffee competition to win a $30 gift voucher to your favourite coffee shop : click here
(No Ratings Yet)
Loading ...
0 responses so far ↓
Subscribe to our RSS Feed and leave a comment to enter the commentator of the week competition and win a $20 Amazon.com gift voucher.
Leave a Comment