"Other Arms"
22 April 2009, 13:00
| Written by Lewis Denby
There's something uncomfortably clinical about this, Redjetson's previously unreleased second album. It's uncomfortable because there's nothing poignant about it, nothing that evokes sorrow at the band's demise last year. It's a solid combination of traditional post-rock and more commercial sounds, often reminiscent of certain independent scenes in America. But its main effect is to point towards other examples of the genre hybrid, by upcoming bands who are producing a far more passionate sound.
The result is a pleasant listen, rather than a memorable one. It's perfectly innofensive: not in a bland way, but in the sense that it's completely palatable, well worth a listen, yet - most probably - rather forgettable. Though there are some standout moments - 'Questions I Don't Want To Ask' builds to a particularly agreeable crescendo - most of the record feels somewhat stale.It's an album that grows in complexity as the clock ticks on, with most of the stronger tracks positioned in the latter half. The music grows more etheral and spatial, giving the pondering emotions of the music time to ferment. 'Witches at the Controls' is a beautiful piece: initially sparse, but growing into a pacey and urgent package of fabulously-constructed ambient rock, akin to some of Oceansize's best work. But, elsewhere, there's still something missing. It's technically accomplished and structurally sound, but lacks the confidence such a heart-on-sleeve delivery requires.Other Arms is not a record to be ashamed of. It glistens pleasantly in the summer sun shining through the window as I type. It's just that, by the time the rain inevitibly pours down again, I can't imagine I'll feel the urge to go back for many more repeat listens. When it's your band's final effort, this isn't what you're aiming for. A shame - but a perfectly acceptable one.
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