Tweet

Album Details

• Artist: Elie Small
• Album: Without A Sound
• Label: Self Released
• Year of Release: 2012
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: gwhill on 2012-12-20

The arrangement that opens the set on “It’s Alright” is quite sparse. That leaves the vocals standing almost alone. There’s almost a reggae vibe to the cut, particularly on those vocals. It gets built out into a more full alternative rock arrangement later, though, setting the tone for the album nicely. It’s a great way to preview the type of ride that’s in store for the listener. Overall, the classy alternative rock meets pop motif that was presented on that opening number is what carries the disc. Of course, that’s not to say that things all sound the same. They don’t.

Small does a great job of changing tempos, volume levels and musical moods and tones to keep it interesting. For instance, there’s almost a country vibe in some ways on “And Be Gone,” along with some retro soulful sounds. At times, most notably “Wrongs of Love” the arrangement and vocal melodies call to mind something Paul Simon might do. The sound that opens “(Drowned) In The Fright of It All” is slow and rather dirge-like. There are hints of heavy metal, but it’s more like some of the moodier sound from The Pixies or Mazzy Star in a lot of ways. As that song develops, though, it presents a different musical side by turning rather symphonic. There’s almost a Latin funk element to the title track, with horns lending some definite jazz textures.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about this disc is how deftly Small combines varying elements into something cohesive. Another thing that’s noteworthy is the skill he shows at taking a song structure and arrangement that’s quite complex and making it groove enough to feel accessible. There’s such a balance of sounds and such a subtle complexity presented that this is a real winner. The thing is, those kinds of things are there when you really listen and analyze the music in detail. The charm is that you can just put it on and enjoy, and never realize how much is really going on here. That says a lot. It’s an alternative pop rock set that varies a lot from song to song while feeling cohesive. This is quite a strong release.

User Reviews and Comments

Log In or Register to Rate Albums