Hailing from Portland Oregon, Rare Monk put out polished indie rock with a focus on heartfelt guitar tunes rather than summer anthems.
With a deft instrumental touch and evocative vocals, Portland quintet Rare Monk wends its way successfully through the excellent new four-track Rare Monk EP. The group’s first official EP is an amalgamation of tasteful balance, nuanced detail and beautiful production.
Poking around on Rare Monk’s website reveals a solid collection of singles from the last year or so that illuminate a group that knows its sound and has a distinct flavor. From the originals to the excellent cover “Ain’t No Sunshine,” the trail points toward a rapid maturation.
Rare Monk EP, as a showcase, toys with the darkened hue of an apocalyptic cynicism that easily swings back toward wistful self-awareness. “California (Will Burn)” is an interesting concoction of instrumental work that vaguely recalls the alt-rock of the mid-2000s while simultaneously managing to maintain an anxious earnestness that comes across as surprising, considering the lyrical subject material.
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“Light Tricks” is airy, dripping with syrupy vocals and muted guitar fuzz. That it stays compelling throughout is a testament to the group’s understanding of dynamics and My Morning Jacket-style layering. “The Only Reason to Tour the Midwest” doubles as a bit of a punchline, pairing nicely with “California” as a counterpoint to the occasionally overwrought vibe that seeps through. “Warning Pulse” quietly closes the EP with a soundscapey instrumental background and measured vocals with finely placed harmonies.
Rare Monk EP is a fitting debut for a band that already feels comfortable in its own shoes.
Members: Dorian Aites – Vocals, Keys, Violin, Guitar Isaac Thelin – Violin, Saxophone Jacob Martin – Guitar Forest Gallien – Bass Rick Buhr – Drums
The Fat Angel Sings 