Review Summary: Mohican are clearly full of ideas, and present the whole thing in a neat, well mastered package.
2 of 2 thought this review was well writtenFor a band that is planted in a genre with many imitators,
Mohican tend to avoid the fray that is home to more than enough. Instrumental music has a tendency to regress quickly, even through the span of one album. And while there are a handful of really good groups making rounds today, the overwhelming majority can't seem to get their niche out. Explosions in the Sky be damned, it's time to take this show elsewhere.
Mohican are clearly on the way to their niche by finding some middle ground between their predecessors. Instead of taking the long route, their EP Honest Red has reputable substance at a more bearable pace, more specifically, with the song lengths. The pace of progression during each song is the grand, welcome change in a realm of not-so-fast mentality. Because let's be honest, the only way to create post-rock songs like Godspeed You! Black Emperor is to be as good as Godspeed You! Black Emperor.
All of the tracks seem to have their own personality. Yet, the overall album has a warm feel. The dynamic changes and freedom from lack of structure are evident minute by minute. This autonomy slightly differs from the majority of their contemporaries (this is a good thing). Varied yet interesting, and tinged with ambience reminiscent of Hammock, the tone stops just short of ethereal. The band have created soft, pleasant soundscapes with crisp, clean guitars and tasteful yet interesting drums.
Honest Red is a modest and enjoyable EP that leaves a little to be desired and a lot to look forward to. With only three members, Mohican are like the yin to Dionaea's yang. Coincidentally, the bands are from nearby areas, further cementing Eastern Pennsylvania and its neighbors as a center for young, impressive talent. Mohican are clearly full of ideas, and present the whole thing in a neat, well mastered package.
