A Patchwork in Progress
Former members of the bands These Arms Are Snakes, Minus The Bear, Shift, Undertow and XVIII Eyes have combined their history and signatures to form a new band. With vocalist Irene Barber (of XVIII Eyes), the guitar sounds of Ryan Frederiksen (Narrows, These Arms Are Snakes), Dust Moth sparked some internet interest when they shared a release with AEGES. But here is where reality sets in. There has been a lot of hope behind Dust Moth, with the Seattle underground scene behind its members and a new mix of Deftones-like presence. Sometimes hope isn’t enough.
The Dragon Mouth EP has left something to be desired to even the most saddened, lost soul in the depth of echoing despair. With resonating melancholy songs, Dust Moth’s music approaches the atmosphere like dusk. Sounds pretty, don’t it? It starts that way. Opening track “Pounding” is an ill-fitting title for a song of approaching noise resembling a dim setting of city life as lived underground. This sound, of course, represents the underground Seattle presence. “Cusp” is quite an astounding song to announce after such a solemn preplay from “Pounding.” The abrupt transition from “Pounding” to “Cusp” is a bit vulgar; this along with some a few other notes could have made this an easier received EP.
The “Selector” introduction and delivery is a step above the preceding “Cusp.” “Casual Friends” is a great song with unique styling that shows the possibility for Dust Moth to hold a strong position in the indie realm. “Months” is a mix of higher pitch vocals intrigues the listener to a different style of vocals, only to be led through a tease. It is, after all, just a come on. “Redbone” is one dooming intro and the most exciting track on the EP
With a unique voice and generally murky music style, this band could be a lot of things, including attention worthy. But there is still some tweaking to do. Best news is it’s just some tweaking– the band’s musicianship and artistry is still very present. We have our hopes for Dust Moth.
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