Review Summary: A wonderful debut from a band that does not receive enough attention.
Skeletonbreath is a New York based instrumental trio. The listener is bombarded with track after track of hard-hitting, furious grooves from drummer Tris Palozzolo and bassist Andrew Platt, topped off by violinist Bob Pycior soloing over the rythmn sections. Their debut album “Louise”, released in 2005, received scarce popularity despite the critical acclaim of those who have, somehow, stumbled across them.
The opening track “Surf Music” begins with a soft melodic bass line and a glockenspiel like instrument. This is briefly interrupted by silence that is then destroyed by a hard, intense groove. Right from the start the band gives a good indication of what to expect from the rest of the album. Many of the tracks on Louise have similar features while steering clear of becoming too gimmicky or recycling ideas.
The musicianship of all three members is apparent on every track of the album. Shifts in time signature and tempo are very common on the album and happen almost instantly with the utmost perfection. The tight grooves and stylized drum tracks are impressive throughout the album. Tris’ work on the hi-hat and all around playing style sounds as if it would fit perfectly into an early Primus song. The bass work on the album is absolutely astounding. Whatever Skeletonbreath lacks in their minimalistic line-up is redeemed by the ferocity and creativity of Platt’s bass lines. With riffs composed of entirely harmonics and sudden key changes, the bass never ceases to impress throughout. The violin work, although interesting and impressing, can tend to feel somewhat samey and cause the parts to blend between songs. This is my main complaint about the album however, it does not hinder the songs altogether, just some of the violin parts.
Louise is flooded with all different musical styles that keep the album interesting. From prog (Surf Music), polka (Circus Train), salsa (Louise) and even the occasional jazz influence (Do The Lazy Rabbit), the band keeps each song having a different style and feel. All the while there are consistencies that do not allow for a sporadic, disjointed feel. This is the saving factor for the album, for without the change-ups, it would grow very tiresome very fast.
Skeletonbreath’s debut shows off their pure talent and songwriting capabilities. It also foreshadows a promising future and leaves me interested in what is to come next for the band.
Recommended Tracks:
Surf Music
Louise
Ashtabula
