Heliotropes – A Constant Sea

Jordan Catalano’s Favorite Band

All-girl rock n’ roll outfit Heliotropes are balls-out loud, adequately distorted and definitely on to something. Channeling the stoner rock gods of the the ’70s and ’80s underground (check out the documentary Such Hawks Such Hounds), their first full-length, A Constant Sea, is a dusty, roadside bar beckoning you to come in for a beer. Or, you know, a bunch of cool chicks playing guitars.

“Early in the Morning” kicks off the album with deep, grungy power chords, chugging along like your favorite Zep song. Amber Myers and Jessica Numsuwankijkul pull off a dramatic ’90s vocal that anyone with enough Mazzy Star and Hole records could only dream of accomplishing.

“Everyone Else” and “Moonlite” are a little subdued. Venturing a bit too close to dream pop (minus the reverb), the group seems to mainly excel when they’re at their loudest. A drop in A Constant Sea‘s momentum only hurts more than it helps.

“Good and Evil” is a 10-ton guitar beast, swimming into your head, making you get those weird ’90s girl dreads your mom never let you have while donning the smelliest, most sweatiest flannel “My So-Called Life” couldn’t get its hands on.

“I Walk Upon the Water” is a fun, bass-driven slamdancer, managing to meld the stoner stylings of the album’s first half with a Mudhoney-esque groove.

The album ends with “Christine,” a classic slowdance ditty, guaranteed to help you ease yourself into your next nightcap with that cute psych major who gave you her number after whatever college protest was cool in 1994. It will remind you of the one chipped black fingernail she used to push back your bangs. Remember, you swore off Sega Genesis that week for the sake of optimal hand dexterity during any future make out sessions. A Constant Sea really does paint a vivid picture. Although not original or innovative, it’s somewhat refreshing. Pulling from the ’80s and ’90s has been the current trend, but Heliotropes promise a refreshing experience.