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27, "Animal Life"
After a critically acclaimed EP, a single release, and severalcompilation appearances, 27 release "Animal Life" their debutfull-length on Kimchee Records. Recorded "at home" by the band andself-produced, "Life" shows off the same elements listeners alreadyknow and love about 27, but here the band spreads its wings anddelivers its first masterpiece. Seeing 27 live, you hear a lot more interms of dynamics than what was heard on "Songs From the Edge of theWing." Those dynamics are heard here, in all their glory, plus someinteresting additions to 27's sound. There is a greater integration ofsamples (including one from Charles Mingus on the first track), andsprinklings here and there of horns (drummer Neil Coulon playsclarinet) and strings. Overall, though, the songwriting has improved,though the subject matter is still very much the same. Songs of frailtyand failed relationships never sounded this lush. There is also anattack in these songs, hidden just below the surface, that can utterlydestroy you, and should, were it not for the sheer beauty of it all.And everywhere, Maria Christopher's voice is clear and soaring, asalways, even when double-tracked and softly sung. There is anothervoice adding flavor on these songs, too, as Ayal Naor harmonizes andfollows Christopher's lead on select tracks, most notably on 'Undone.'These songs are more striking than anything 27 have put to tape so far.The intimacy seems more enveloping, the instrumentation warmer. By thetime you reach 'Cavalla,' the album's ten minute closer, with itshaunting crickets and whistle that gradually fade into the band'ssteady and heavy rhythm, you're utterly a believer. "Didn't youlearn?/It's supposed to burn" sings Christopher, right before theybring the wall of sound back in to show you how it's done when it'sdone right. There are no missteps or weaknesses here. This is slow rockmusic of the highest quality. Don't miss out. "Animal Life" isavailable now on the 27 website, with wider release soon. - samples:
