RED SPAROWES/GREGOR SAMSA (SPLIT)

This four track EP is in fact intended to promote two different artists. The first two tracks here are by Red Sparowes, the other two being by a band called Gregor Samsa.

As is the norm for Red Sparowes, the tracks both have inordinately long narrative titles, so I'll abbreviate! The first track, "I saw the sky.." was originally released as a bonus track on the Japanese version of "At the soundless dawn". It is very similar to the work of EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY, MOGWAI etc., with the same apparent limitations on the band's compositional and performance strengths. The track relies rather too heavily on the dramatised use of repeating guitar chords. "Buildings began to stretch.." first appeared on the band's "demo" release. It is very much more of the same, bursting in at full pelt, slowing midway to a softer repeated rhythm, and crashing back in again. It's all rather predictable, and dare I say unoriginal.

Those who have been highly impressed by Red Sparowes two official albums, as I have, need not concern themselves too much with this interim release. It is I would suggest for collectors only.

Gregor Samsa are not otherwise listed on this site at time of writing (but I suspect will be at some stage). When they appeared on this EP, they had not released a full length album despite having been together for some 5 years. That situation was only rectified early this year. The band are from the same stable as Red Sparowes, their sound being similar to Red Sparowes' softer side, but with occasional vocals. "Young and old/Divine longing" is a reflective understated piece with effective guitar backed violin. This builds gradually through a wonderfully atmospheric post rock section to an almost symphonic conclusion. "+Rock song" (sic) closes the EP, picking up from the conclusion of "Young and old/Divine longing" with more atmospheric violin sounds. As drums picks up the beat, a monotone rhythm introduces more repeating guitar motifs overlaid with further violin.

Of the two bands on show here, Gregor Samsa come across much the better. We know however from Red Sparrowes albums that they have plenty to offer.