EP REVIEW: The Thing With Feathers – Exploring Birdsong

It is difficult to imagine a progressive rock influenced piano led band which possesses zero guitar but this is precisely what the trio of EXPLORING BIRDSONG bring to the table. They have been beavering away, showing their wares on the live circuit, even sealing a hand-picked support slot to the mighty SLEEP TOKEN. It is now time to experience the unveiling of their highly anticipated debut effort entitled The Thing With Feathers which is due for release on November 29th via Long Branch Records. Are EXPLORING BIRDSONG onto something special?

Hope commences proceedings with a melancholic piano piece as the sounds of trickling water cascade through the background, this slots seamlessly into following track The River. The dramatic nature and punchy drum beats instantly grasp your attention, preparing you for the journey which is about to unfold. The serene tones of Lynsey Ward are simply captivating, tugging on your heart strings with each passing note. The latter stages have a jarring quality and beautifully mesh with the overlaying instrumentation. The Sinking Question keeps the momentum going with an alluring pacing and passionate melodies. The progressive influences are evident, particularly in the subtle bass lines but everything feels so effortlessly addictive and accessible that it sucks you in with ease.

The inviting chorus of vocals that take the spotlight for title track The Thing With Feathers provide a neatly placed intermission, ushering in the almost circus-like procession at the beginning of The Baptism. Considering there are only three members of this collective the amount of layers and intricacy which is achieved is in this track is mind blowing. The sharp drum segments combine elegantly with the theatrical piano pieces and skilfully executed bass styles. Lynsey‘s powerful vocals chaperoning you through the various chapters are the cherry on the cake. Before you know it final track The Downpour has arrived as it’s heartfelt elegance ensures you are fixated to the very last moments. The floating melodies are utterly enthralling and the distinctive changes in tempo further enhance the unravelling spectacle.

The only criticism that could possibly be found in The Thing With Feathers is that it leaves you gasping for more. The maturity in the musicianship displayed within this release would be expected from a band much deeper into their career. It’s difficult to fathom that this a debut effort, a stunning one at that. The sky is literally the limit for EXPLORING BIRDSONG and there will definitely be crowds of people flocking to witness where their trajectory heads next.

Rating: 10/10

The Thing With Feathers is set for release on November 29th via Long Branch Records.

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