BARROWS

"Red Giant" (Self-produced; 2014)

Reviewed by Jeff Rogers

Barrows are an instrumental band: No lyrics, no vocals -- they don't need them. Their music says more than a singer could convey. This disc is just five songs and although they are often long songs, they don't drag on. Instead, they develop and then envelope you, the listener. This is a concept album -- remember when I said there were no vocals to deliver the message? Well, the music interprets the story about the life of a star and what happens after it dies. The music is incredible and it takes you on a journey that will delight your senses. You should sit back with some headphones on and just enjoy the story as it unfolds.

There are plenty of guitar sounds on "Red Giant" and, in fact, you can often hear them talking to each other. The drums keep a steady pace and exceed when the star begins to grow. The bass keeps right in line with the drums to give you the full effect. All the instruments talk to each other at one time or another. Music speaks at more of a subconscious level, so when you're listening to "Red Giant" try to forget about words and let the music speak to you. This is one disc you can play when there is nothing else in your music arsenal to get you through the night.

For more information http://barrowstheband.bandcamp.com/.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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Revised: 19 Mar 2024 18:22:14 -0500 .